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Take Control of Your Life in 2016 You are like a river. You go through life taking the path of least resistance. We all do. You may try to change the direction of your own flow in certain areas of your life, your eating habits, your work habits, your spiritual life, the way you treat others, the way you treat yourself and the attitudes you have about life. And you may even have success for a while. With the exception of a few minor adjustments, you will eventually return to the old you with the same behavior and attitudes. The underlying structure of your life determines the path of least resistance. You probably do not realize how the underlying structures of your life, determines the way you live. Many continue to live the way they do often feeling powerless and frustrated. They have attempted to make major changes in their relationships, their careers, their family, their health and the quality of their lives. They are following their same old patterned path. They have made some superficial changes in their lives but somehow
there is no permanent change. They know that there is more to life than this but they don’t know how to change it. If the underlying structures in your life remain unchanged, the greatest tendency is for you to follow the same direction your life has always taken. You can change the path of the river by changing the structure of the terrain so that the river flows where you want it to go. This is the way to create the life you want. Once a new basic structure is in place, the overall thrust of your life like the power of the river’s current, is surging to form the results that you really want. In fact, by making a change in that underlying structure of your life, the new path of least resistance cannot lead anywhere except the direction that you want to go. We must become creative enough to outsmart ourselves and our weaknesses. Many of us are already accomplished and successful, but if the structures in your life do not support your success, you will be limited. When you make a change
to that structure, you change each year from a possibility of success to a probability of success! Since childhood, we have learned that circumstances are the dominant forces in life. Parental approval for the proper responses in life led to applause and reward. Negative responses led to punishment and correction. Our society overflows with this concept. Fame, fortune, celebrity status and satisfying relationships come from “right” responses to circumstances. Prison sentences, public embarrassment and possibly early death are penalties for “wrong” responses to circumstances. Here is our problem. We are constantly reacting to our fires instead of eliminating the terrain that is causing the problem. We have no plan! The problem leads to reaction to solve the problem. This leads to less intensity of the problem. This leads to less action to solve the problem. The end result…the problem remains. We are constantly reacting to our
Go and walk through the land in every direction, for I am giving it to you. – Genesis 13:17
circumstances instead of creating structure to eliminate these circumstances. Our defense is staying on the field too long. Where is our offense? We must continue to move forward, grow and develop! Creating is not a product of the circumstances. As you consider what you want to create in this life, it is good for you to know, that the circumstances that presently exist are not the determining factor of the results you desire to create. Do not be limited by them. We need to bring our highest fruits into our being which includes our work life. Action is required. When you take an action that is designed to bring your creation into being, the action may work or not work. If the action works, you may continue it or discontinue it. Sometimes it will be useful to continue in it, sometimes not. You will know what to do by the current state of the result. All the actions, the ones that work See tAKE cONTROL on Page 4
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tAKE cONTROL Continued from Page 3 and do not work help to create the final result. This is because creating itself is a learning process, learning what works and does not work. The skill of the creator is the ability to experiment and to evaluate one’s own experiments. As we put our actions into motion we will develop instincts what actions work best. This generally happens over time but the more you create the more chance you have to develop your own instincts. Some of the actions you take will help you to move directly to the result you want, but most will not. The art of creating is often found in your ability to adjust or correct what you have done so far. We must learn as we go and ontinue to
www.changingtimes.info develop. God has us in this transformation position for a reason. Are you going to react or respond? If you begin to create the results you want today, you are more prepared to create the results you want 5 years from now. Each new creation gives you added experience and knowledge of your own creative process. You will naturally increase your ability to envision what you want and your ability to bring those results into existence! As Christians, when we take control of our creativity, it will lead us to good health, exceptional relationships, love, a relevant life purpose, peace and life challenges worthy of our human existence. The process should always serve the result. Save the Nations Ministries >
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Will You Partner With Us? In 2016, Changing Times will be faced with New Challenges as we continue to spread the Gospel in our local area as well as expanding our presence online. Save the Nations Ministries continues to put out a first class biblical publication keeping its content as pure as we can. With your help - we can partner to reach the nations! We are prayerfully asking you to team up with us, so that together we can make a difference in so many people’s lives. We have different levels to choose from. Let God lead you to make the right choice. Regardless of the level you chooose, a free subscription of Changing Times will be offered to you as a token of our appreciation.
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The Proverbs Thirty-One Husband by David Wells A capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman – who is he who can find her? She is far more precious than jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls. 10 The heart of her husband trusts in her confidently and relies in her securely, so that he has no lack of [honest] gain
or need of [dishonest] spoil. (Proverbs 31:10-11). The Proverbs Thirty-One wife is one busy lady. In addition to being a wife and mother, she is a manufacturer, importer, task coordinator, realtor, farmer, seamstress, upholsterer, and merchant. Many wives read these pages and pray continu-
ally to achieve such greatness. Others see the achievements as unattainable goals and forget about them completely. But Proverbs Thirty-One is not all about the lady. First of all, let me point out that the lady mentioned in Proverbs Thirty-One is a wife. She has a husband. She does not have a roommate, domestic partner, or even a live-in boyfriend. Now men, don’t go thinking I’m singing your praises and saying that your wife couldn’t be a Proverbs Thirty-One wife without your help. I am sure there are some husbands who have started reading this and had this thought just from the title. Such thoughts about wives are wrong in God’s eyes and should never exist in the hearts of men. How should the heart of a man
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As editor of Changing Times, there are often concerns that both On Eagles Wings and Save the Nations Ministries share. Sometimes, there are articles or advertisements that do not exactly line up with the views of Changing Times. Changing Times continues to be published by advertisement and offerings of the readers. While Changing Times advertises businesses, videos, books, and articles, we attempt to do so without contradiction to scripture. We pray that these are used to build the Church and not lead it astray with doctrines that were not given to the Disciples (Galatians 1:8). It is almost an impossibility to research each advertisement or article to reveal error in enough time before publication. As humans we all make mistakes, but as Christians we must remember that error will always ride in on the back of truth. This is what makes it seem so good. It is with these statements, that we ask the following of our readers. The Bereans were recognized for being good stewards over the word of God (Acts 17:10-11). They studied and checked the things, which were taught to be sure they were true and lined up with the scripture. As such, we are no different. Each of us has the responsibility to do the same. This paper attempts to be conservative in belief and bring the gospel to the readers in a balanced fashion, as scripture demands. The Cross of Christ should always be the center of each and every Christians understanding of the gospel to include salvation, sanctification and glorification. Jesus the Christ is the source and the Cross, is the means. Due to reason of deception, many have begun falling away from the purity of that message. There is little said about sin, repentance, the saving Blood, the completed work of the Cross and the necessity of placing our faith in Jesus, and that completed sacrifice. We not only ask, but also beg our reading audience to also be good Bereans. If we find something we understand to be against scripture, we will remove it as we find it, but there are some things that get by us. The Bible speaks of a last day deception that if it were possible, would deceive the very elect of God (Matthew 24). Help us help you. Please, in these last days — Be good Bereans. We pray that each article and advertisement will serve to bless, encourage and increase knowledge and understanding of a relationship with the King of Kings. These are most assuredly troubling times — hold fast to that which is true. In His Service, Save the Nations Ministries >
Men
www.changingtimes.info Husband Continued from Page 6 feel toward his wife? He should trust in her confidently. He should rely and believe in her securely. This is but the first role a Proverbs Thirty-One husband plays in his wife’s life. And yes guys, she could do it without you, but why should she have to? Wouldn’t it make things easier for her to attain such lofty heights if you were there to pick her up in the bad times? But the sad truth is that husbands have more confidence and reliance on their friends than their wife. Domineering husbands especially have their wife broken down mentally so much neither the husband nor the wife are ever able to be all God wants them to be. And yes, such things even happen in seemingly Christian households. I think a big misconception of marriage on the part of husbands has to do with authority. It is Biblical for husbands to be the head of the home. But a family is never meant to be run like the military. Husbands are not drill sergeants. They should never expect their wives and children to bow and salute at his every command, yet Marlo and I have both seen husbands like that. Husbands are supposed to love their wives as Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25). Men, are you willing to give up your life for your wife? Is her wellbeing and security more important to you than anything? That’s how Jesus loved us. He literally gave up His life. Are you willing to do the same for her? Are you willing quit going out with the guys for a night on the town? Are you willing to stop being a self-reliant man and start being a man who puts his wife and children first? God wants you to be that Proverbs Thirty-One husband. But men, don’t think your wives’ greatness stops with trust, reliance, and being the man God wants you to be. Look at these verses, also from Proverbs Thirty-One. 28 Her children rise up and call
her blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied); and her husband boasts of and praises her, [saying] 29 Many daughters have done virtuously, nobly, and well [with the strength of character that is steadfast in goodness], but you excel them all. (Proverbs 31:28-29) This is a mouthful. Husbands, do you boast about your wife? Do you sing her praises every chance you get? Imagine how much more confidence your wife would have if you just told her how proud you were of her. I know men are notorious for looking for a pat on the back whenever they can get it. But does your wife get more praise than you? She should because her wellbeing is more important than yours. How much more confidence would she have in being a Proverbs Thirty-One wife if you were there praising her every step of the way instead of complaining about your socks not matching? Wives don’t be discouraged. My wife Marlo has always been the Proverbs Thirty-One wife but I was too blind to see it. I am living proof that the husband need not be involved in his wife being that lady. But it is so much easier for her now. It is easier because she has a husband who thinks of her well-being. It is easier because I do praise her. It is easier because she knows that I trust and rely on her. It is because of her character and integrity that I am known in the city gates when I sit among the elders of the land (Proverbs 31:23). Husbands, it is time to get it right. Be the Proverbs Thirty-One husband. I speak the entire passage of the Proverbs Thirty-One wife over Marlo every night before I fall asleep. I don’t do it because I’m speaking in faith, hoping she will one day be one. I say it because she is all those things and even more to me. I say it because I have found a capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman. And like the Proverb says, she is far more precious than jewels, and her value is far above rubies or pearls. © FaithWriters.com > like us and follow us on facebook for chances to win prizes
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Becoming the Man God Designed You to Be by John Clark Young men, I am sure that all of you reading this desire to become good providers. You want to become successful in life. You also desire to be a good example and role model to others, especially your children. Certainly, you want to have positive relationships, especially with your wife. I am writing to men here because men do not talk much about these issues, and men don't want to admit that they don't "have it all together." All of us must identify any negative experiences, relational issues, or teachings that are not bringing positive results in life, and in spiritual and emotional maturity. We must identify specific things like anger, low self-esteem, depression, lack of forgiveness, or the inability to develop and maintain functional and positive relationships. One must explore his past to see if any specific things in his church, school, or family upbringing have negatively impacted the present. You must learn to identify emotional and relational issues in yourself and others, and then have a knowledge of the tools, resources, and strategies necessary to deal with them and bring positive resolutions. Then, there must be a willingness and sense of need in doing whatever is required to take charge of your life, like counseling, reading books, being mentored by an older, mature Christian man, prayer and Bible
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reading, or seeking forgiveness and restoration. Failure to do any of the above can hold you back from success in life and from being a good provider, example, and loving husband and father. In addition, an area of concern is how denominational or church teachings have impacted your life. I am singling this out from everything else because it often is not considered as one of the culprits of lives moving in a negative direction. What were you taught in church about marriage, about healing and forgiveness, about finances, about success, about selfesteem, about God's will, about life purpose and passion? Some of what you were taught may not be correct because much "biblical" teaching is taken out of context or not based upon sound biblical interpretation. You must continually ask yourself the question: "Is what I have been taught bringing positive results in my life and relationships, and is it hindering or causing emotional and spiritual maturity?" With all of this said, you can now begin to rid yourself of any emotional baggage weighing you down from becoming that leader, that provider, that example, and Godly person you were meant to be. Just one unresolved issue or wrong belief can block your success in life and spiritual maturity. So, if your life is not moving in a positive direction in one or more areas, find out why and go to work on correcting it. © FaithWriters.com >
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"One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard: that you, O God, are strong, and that you, O Lord, are loving." (Psalm 62:1112a) We moms should never build the stability of our identity on the fragility of our kid's choices. Have you ever felt like a failure as a mom because you got a not so great call from the principal's office? Me, too. On the flip side, have you ever felt like the greatest mom ever because your child got some special recognition? Me, too. So, let me say it again just so this crucial truth can sink in a little deeper. I'm repeating it for no other reason, sweet sister, than the fact I need this message. So, forgive me if this devotion preaches a message only to myself. We moms should never build the stability of our identity on the fragility of our kid's choices. I've got five amazing kids. I really do. They are wildly funny, imaginative, moody, opinionated, strong, weak, happy, sad, good and sometimes not so good. In other words they're pretty normal. And while I've done everything in my power to raise them to turn out amazingly awesome - and they very well might turn out amazingly awesome - there aren't any guarantees. Sometimes bad parents raise terrific kids. And sometimes terrific parents raise kids that chase bad things
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Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9) I do not like open heights. I can’t stand narrow balconies. And when driving across a bridge, you’ll find me hugging the rail along the inside lane. A few years ago, some friends tried to help me conquer my fear of heights by inviting our family to an indoor rock-climbing center. My heart stopped as we entered the doors and I scanned the highest peak at 25 feet. The instructors assured me that a web of ropes and harnesses would hold me tight. Before I could say “no thank you,” I was strapped in and signing an injury waiver. Towards the end of the day our friends, John and Laura, asked their eight-year-old son Steven if he wanted to try to climb to the highest peak. Steven seemed a little hesitant, but when his dad offered game tokens and ice cream if he reached it, Steven took the challenge. Although Steven wasn’t crazy about heights, he loved a dare. The promise of reward, mixed with the challenge and faith of his father, evoked courage in him. I watched with admiration as Steven started the climb with confidence. He made it to 10 feet, then 15, then 20. But as he inched past the next face of the wall, he looked down. Realizing how high he was and how far he still had to go, he insisted he couldn’t do it. By this time, John was holding their very tired and fussy 3-yearold and Laura was feeding their hungry baby girl. I don’t know where my brave husband was, but I quickly realized I was the only one standing there who could do something. Suddenly courage and strength surged through my body and I called out, “Don’t give up buddy. You can do it. I’ll help you!” In record time, I reached the 20-foot marker, crossed over the peak and up beside Steven to encourage him, reminding him of how far he’d come. I told him he could do it with God’s strength
and that it would be worth it if he’d persevere. With my words and my confidence in him, I helped Steven turn his thoughts towards a higher goal, an inner peak, a reward much greater than ice cream and game tokens – the reward of getting to a place he had stopped believing he could reach. I surprised myself. I had silenced the voices of my own fears by focusing on helping someone else overcome theirs. In that moment, I realized the same promises I was claiming for Steven were true for me, too. I could do it with God’s strength, and I did! Each day we have the same opportunity. Like God did with Joshua in today’s key verse, and like He does with us, we can come alongside each other in some of life’s hardest challenges and highest peaks and say, “Don’t give up, you can do it. I’ll be with you and I will help you.” Isn’t it amazing that when we take our eyes off our fears, our doubts, and our struggles and focus on someone else's needs, we somehow forget our own? In believing the power of God’s promises for others, our confidence in His promises for us seems to grow as well. And that my friend is the power of encouragement! Lord, thank You for the power of Your words that give me courage to become who You’ve created me to be – to go to places You’re calling me to go and climb spiritual heights that are out of my reach without Your help. Give me Your encouragement and help me encourage someone else today. In Jesus Name, Amen. © Proverbs 31 Ministries >
Children
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Changing Times
Children A Soldier's Faith Healing of the Centurion's Servant by Karin Adams and Barbara Wilmerton Haas The house was filled with balloons... ...and streamers... ...and friends... ...and presents... ......lots and LOTS of presents!!! Joey met his best friend Tyler at the door. "Did you get it?" he whispered excitedly. "Not yet," Tyler responded, "but I WILL!" Joey quickly spied out the table where all of Tyler's birthday gifts were being placed until time to open them. Joey spotted one particularly large box, sitting directly in the middle of the table, wrapped in shiny blue paper with a huge white ribbon taped to the top. Joey grew excited at the possibility. "Tyler," he said. "Do you think it could be in THAT one?" Tyler, who was also eyeing the same package, agreed. "It could be," he replied. It was a wonderful birthday party. They played all sorts of games, ate lots of pizza, and ice cream, and cake. FINALLY, it was time to open the gifts. Joey kept a close eye on Tyler as he peeled the paper off each package. Tyler received lots of neat things, like the brand new baseball and glove, the remote control car, and the super sonic water soaker. The last box to open was the one with the shiny blue paper. "Could this be it?" Tyler carefully removed the paper, lifted the lid, and...and... and...pulled out a... ...basketball. A basketball? Joey's heart SANK. He knew this was not what his friend had been waiting for. Amazingly, Tyler still smiled and seemed to be enjoying himself. After the last of the guests had left, Tyler and Joey took all of Tyler's presents upstairs to his room. Joey felt bad for his friend and said, "I'm sorry you didn't get
it." Tyler looked right at Joey and said, "Don't worry, Joey. It's coming." Suddenly, they heard the front door open and close. Tyler looked up with excitement and confidence in his eyes. "It's HERE!" he exclaimed and ran down the stairs, skipping them two at a time. Joey was not far behind. Sure enough, when Tyler reached the bottom of the stairs, there stood his father holding a brand new puppy. Joey was shocked. "How did you KNOW it was coming?" Joey asked. Tyler turned around and, looking Joey square in the eye, said, "Because my father gave me his word that I would get a puppy on my birthday, and my father ALWAYS keeps his word." With that, Joey and Tyler burst into laughter and raced outside to play with Tyler's new puppy. A very long time ago, after Jesus finished preaching to a large crowd of people, He came down from the mountain and headed back toward the town of Capernaum. As the crowd thronged the streets of Capernaum, a very dear servant lay on his bed, under his master's roof, paralyzed and so sick, he was ready to die. His master, a wealthy centurion (commanding officer in the Roman army), sat beside his bed, feeling totally helpless, not knowing what to do. Quickly the news spread through the streets with much excitement. People were shouting everywhere - to the ones leaning out their windows above, and over their shoulders to people standing behind them, and far back to those stand-
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See A Soldier's Faith on Page 12 Samuel was displeased with their request and went to the Lord for guidance. – 1 Samuel 8:6
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Changing Times
A Soldier's Faith Continued from Page 11 ing at the edge of the crowd who could not see over taller people's heads: "JESUS IS HERE!" "The One Who has healed so many sick people..." " ...and even raised people from the dead." " COME AND SEE!" Word of Jesus' arrival soon reached the ears of the Roman centurion. Not wanting to leave his dying servant's side because he loved him so dearly, and realizing that Jesus was the only one who could help him, this loyal commanding officer sent for leaders of the synagogue, which he himself had built. As soon as the leaders came to his home, the centurion said, "Go quickly and find Jesus. BEG Him to come and heal my servant." Knowing how very much the centurion loved their nation and how much he had given so they could have their very own synagogue, they quickly obeyed and started out to find Jesus.
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Children It wasn't easy, for the men had to push their way through the crowded streets. However, the synagogue leaders soon found Jesus. They wasted no time at all getting right up to where Jesus could hear them and immediately started to earnestly plead with Him to come with them and heal the centurion's dying servant. "If anyone deserves your help, it is this man," they urged. "He loves the Jews and even paid personally to build us a synagogue." After listening intently to the men, Jesus said, "I will come and heal his servant." He then followed the synagogue leaders through the crowded streets, as they led the way to the respected centurion's home. Not far from the home, friends of the centurion arrived with a message for Jesus. "Sir, do not trouble yourself to come to my home, for I am unworthy for you to enter under my roof or even to come and meet you. Just speak a word, and I know my dear servant will be healed," the centurion's message read. "I know how it is, for I receive orders from my superior officers and I give orders to
those under my authority. All I have to say is, 'Go!' and they go, or 'Come!' and they come, and to my servant, 'Do this or that' and he does it. So if you just say, 'Be healed,' my servant will be made well." When Jesus heard the centurion's words, he was totally amazed. Jesus marveled at the faith of the centurion. He turned around and said to the crowd that was following Him, "Never among all the Jews in Israel have I met a man with faith like this." Then the centurion came himself and Jesus turned to him and said, "Go your way. Just as you have believed, it will be done." When the centurion and his friends returned to the house, they found the servant had been completely healed in the same hour that Jesus promised healing. When Jesus gives His word, you can be sure He will keep His promise!
www.changingtimes.info thy for him to come into his house? Why did Jesus marvel at the centurion's faith? REMEMBER: When Jesus gives His word, you can be sure He will keep His promise! A VERSE TO LEARN "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart" (Psalm 37:4). LET'S PRAY Dear God, thank You for the good things You do for us each and every day. May we always put our trust in You and in Your ability to do what You say You will do. Let us remember that nothing takes You by surprise because You know all things and are in all places. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
CAN YOU FIND THIS STORY IN THE BIBLE? (Matthew 8:5-13; Luke 7:1THINK! 10) Do you think the centurion was Copyright Š 2015 - The Lorain afraid to ask for Jesus' help? County Free-Net Chapel Do you think Jesus understood North Central Ohio, U.S.A. > why the centurion did not feel wor-
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Children
Changing Times
Kids are something............... A child was told to write a book report on the entire Bible. This is amazing. I wonder how often we take for granted that children understand what we are teaching??? Through the eyes of a child. Children's Bible in a Nutshell In the beginning, which occurred near the start, there was nothing but God, darkness, and some gas. The Bible says, 'The Lord thy God is one, but I think He must be a lot older than that. Anyway, God said, 'Give me a light!' and someone did. Then God made the world. He split the Adam and made Eve. Adam and Eve were naked, but they weren't embarrassed because mirrors hadn't been invented yet. Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating one bad apple, so they were driven from the Garden of Eden. Not sure what they were driven in though, because they didn't have cars. Adam and Eve had a son, Cain, who hated his brother as long as he was Abel. Pretty soon
all of the early people died off, except for Methuselah, who lived to be like a million or something. One of the next important people was Noah, who was a good guy, but one of his kids was kind of a Ham. Noah built a large boat and put his family and some animals on it. He asked some other people to join him, but they said they would have to take a rain check. After Noah came Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jacob was more famous than his brother, Esau, because Esau sold Jacob his birthmark in exchange for some pot roast. Jacob had a son named Joseph who wore a really loud sports coat. Another important Bible guy is Moses, whose real name was Charlton Heston. Moses led the Israel Lights out of Egypt and away from the evil Pharaoh after God sent ten plagues on Pharaoh's people. These plagues included frogs, mice, lice, bowels, and no cable. God fed the Israel Lights every day with manicotti.
Then he gave them His Top Ten Commandments. These include don't lie, cheat, smoke, dance, or covet your neighbor's stuff. Oh, yeah, I just thought of one more: Humor thy father and thy mother. One of Moses' best helpers was Joshua who was the first Bible guy to use spies. Joshua fought the battle of Geritol and the fence fell over on the town. After Joshua came David. He got to be king by killing a giant with a slingshot. He had a son named Solomon who had about 300 wives and 500 porcupines. My teacher says he was wise, but that doesn't sound very wise to me. After Solomon there were a bunch of major league prophets. One of these was Jonah, who was swallowed by a big whale and then barfed upon the shore. There were also some minor league prophets, but I guess we don't have to worry about them. After the Old Testament came the New Testament. Jesus is the star of the New Testament. He
He who walks uprightly, and works righteousness, and speaks the truth in his heart; - Psalm 15:2
was born in Bethlehem in a barn. (I wish I had been born in a barn, too, because my mom is always saying to me, 'Close the door! Were you born in a barn?' It would be nice to say. During His life, Jesus had many arguments with sinners like the Pharisees and the Democrats. Jesus also had twelve opossums. The worst one was Judas Asparagus. Judas was so evil that they named a terrible vegetable after him. Jesus was a great man. He healed many leopards and even preached to some Germans on the Mount. But the Democrats and all those guys put Jesus on trial before Pontius the Pilot. Pilot didn't stick up for Jesus. He just washed his hands instead. Anyway's, Jesus died for our sins, then came back to life again. He went up to Heaven but will be back at the end of the Aluminum. His return is foretold in the book of Revolution. >
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Seniors
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Seniors Sunday Dinner at Granny’s by Jeff Fuller My loving, caring wife made Chicken Dumplings the other night for supper. As soon as I walked in the door, the aroma was filling the entire house. I went immediately to the stove and in one of our large, stainless steel pots I found the source of my drooling-Chicken Dumplings.
When chicken is in soups, dumplings, boneless or in casseroles I will eat my fill; but do not feed me fried chicken. Several reasons prevail to satisfy the curious who wish to know why I will not eat chicken on the bone, but suffice it to say, I cannot do it. As a Southern Baptist pastor this problem has caused a flurry of questions and comments. One
church member demanded to see my credentials, because he had never met a preacher who did not like fried chicken. Then there was the member who was downright offended when I told him, “Honestly, I believe I am a Church of God, cause I like steak and luxury sedans.” Growing up, I ate my fair share of chicken in the fried variety. It was in my late teens that fried chicken lost all appeal to me and I completely turned away from it, but never to hurt someone’s feelings, I would eat whatever was offered and nibble at the fried variety. During a conversation with a friend a few weeks ago, we were telling tales. Then he confessed that he was well into the late teens before he realized that a chicken had more parts than the pulley bone and the neck bone. When I asked why, he proceeded to share his sad story growing up. Evidently, he was somewhat abused, in my way of thinking. He said that on Sunday’s his parents would invite the preacher and his family for dinner. It was the rule that the adults ate first and then the children got what was left. He said, with great disdain, the preacher, his wife and his parents left a few pieces of chicken and it was always the neck and pulley bones. I really felt sorry for him. Evidently, my grandparents were much better to us grandchildren than his parents were to him. My Granny would not only invite the preacher and his family-which consisted of him, his wife, and three or four children (I think preachers back then took seriously God’s command to go and multiply the earth)-but also there would be other family members and their children. Granny would take all us children to the table, help us fill our plates and then serve us sweet tea in the living room or on the back porch and then the adults would run for the table. When it was time for seconds, we would quietly enter the Dining Room and reach between one of the adults to retrieve whatever we were looking for and sometimes they would stop long enough from their talking or gnawing a bone to help us. By the way, there was a reason everyone congregated at Granny’s table on Sunday’s See Sunday Dinner on Page 47
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Seniors
Preparing for the Funeral
Changing Times
“Fun, Friendship, and Peace of Mind”
by Jim Elliff My aged aunt suffered from a series of small strokes impairing her former elephantine memory. We cherish the story of the time she attended the funeral of her uncle William. On the way back the car passed the home of the deceased uncle. Her contemplative voice was heard from the back seat, almost talking to herself. "Hmm," she mused, "I don’t remember seeing uncle William there today. Wonder where he was?" The truth is that uncle William had prepared for his funeral ahead of time and skipped town. Seriously. He vacated to heaven! My aunt, as bewildered as she sometimes tended to be, was quite right! It might be thought that the way to prepare for a good funeral is to have a well-lived life. This is partially true. But the fuller answer is this: To prepare for your funeral you must never die at all. OK, I’m playing with words. But I’m not the only one who has done that. Mary, Martha and Lazarus lived two miles outside of Jerusalem in Bethany. This home was open to Jesus whenever he and his disciples needed it. The hospitality was the best, and Jesus counted on these three unmarried followers as the closest of friends. Then Jesus heard that Lazarus was ill. Contrary to what you would expect, He remained where he was for two more days before going to Bethany. Upon leaving He told his disciples, "Lazarus is dead; and for your sakes I am glad I was not there, in order that you may believe. But let us go to him." By the time He arrived, Lazarus had been in the grave four days. When Jesus approached the home, Martha ran out to meet Jesus and the disciples. "Master, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. And even now I know that whatever you ask from God, He will give it." Now, step into this verbal exchange and listen careful to what Jesus says. Jesus: "Your brother shall rise again." Martha: "I know that he will rise again at the resurrection, on the last day." Jesus: "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, even if he has died, shall live; and every one who is living and is a
believer in me shall never die. Do you believe this?" The story concludes by Jesus actually raising Lazarus from the dead, the most notable of the miracles of the three-year period of Jesus’ ministry outside of His own resurrection. I’m confident that Lazarus did not want to come back, but returning would have its purpose. It is in these enigmatic words of Jesus that we learn how to prepare for our funeral—that is, to prepare to be away when many people will think we’re in the long box. And, not only to be absent, but to be in the right place—not hell. Jesus made two assertions after stating that He is the resurrection and the life: 1. He who believes in me, even if he has died, shall live, and 2. Every one who is living and is a believer in me shall never die. Obviously Jesus is speaking of two ways of living and two ways of dying. There is physical death and spiritual death; and there is physical living and then spiritual living. It is possible for a person to die and yet never die and to live only temporarily and yet live forever. In fact, it is possible for a person to be alive, yet be dead, then be made alive, then die, yet live forever after he dies. Confused yet? The Bible teaches that we are "dead in our trespasses and sins." Though we are living physically, we are dead spiritually unless something happens. But if we come to believe in Christ, we are alive. This means that even though physical death will come eventually, we will live forever—skipping that dreaded funeral while in heaven. So how do you prepare for the funeral you most want to miss? You believe in Christ. To believe means that you reject confidence in yourself as your hope of being accepted by God. Then you place your trust entirely in Christ alone and what he has done on the cross as your passport to forgiveness and eternal life. Not everybody does that. In fact, only a few make the essential preparations in time. Will they be saying at your funeral: "Hmm, I don’t believe I saw ___________ there today"? And perhaps more to the point, will they wonder where you are? Copyright © 2015 Jim Elliff >
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Then you put a leader over us. We went through fire and flood, but you brought us to a place of great abundance. – Psalm 66:12
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'Tis the Season to Be Jolly? By Jim Elliff
"'Tis the Season to be jolly?" Well, maybe. The business of Christmas, that Our Professionals are Licensed and Insured. • www.rcainc.net is, the hard and cold commercial Orleans/Jefferson Region 1 504-779-4740 • St. John/St. Charles Region 3 504-465-5322 trade of the Thanksgiving to Christmas sales window, is a measure of how well America is doing. It's the thermometer in our corporate mouths. Mandeville Needs are created through the media in order to entice the buyer Health Care and Rehabilitation Center into purchasing more this year than 985-626-4798 • www.heritagemanormandeville.com last. No one is to be disappointed at 1820 W. Causeway Approach • Mandeville, LA 70471 Christmas, after all. The manipulation is as blatant toward children as adults. And who can bring themThe Best is Yet to Be Best kept secret in Metairie selves to crush the psyche of anyfor quality rehabilitation and at Ville Ste. Marie skilled nursing care. one by not giving them all they want? The end result of all of this is "happiness." The receivers of the presents are happy and the merchandisers are happy. The media people are happy and the credit card people are happy. Everything is happy during Christmas. Family Atmosphere • Activity Program Happy is what it is supposed to Beauty Parlor • Nutritious, Tasty Meals be, that is. But sometimes things go Professional Healthcare Staff south. The economy may well not St. Anthony’s Healthcare and Rehab Center cooperate. 6001 Airline Drive • Metairie, LA 70003 Sickness may invade the home, 504-733-8448 • Fax 504-733-1917 www.stanthonynh.com jobs may be lost, anger and sulkiness may pervade the atmosphere, death may stalk a family member, drugs and alcohol may taint family Call Today for a Tour! togetherness, divorce clouds may • 1 and 2 BR. and Studio Apts. darken the skies, disappointment • Daily Mass may rule a child's spirit, and depres• Delicious Meals sion may turn you pensive and • Housekeeping Services silent. And so it goes behind the • Immediate Availability! Covington's Premier Destination closed doors or in the inner space of • Medical Transportation for Short Term Rehabilitation so many. The Bible says that even • Day Trips - Activities & Long Term Nursing Care in their laughter there is sorrow. • Emergency Call System Can tinsel and presents, carols 504-834-3164 985-892-6900 and candy really bring happiness? Not often, and not much. And if our 4112 Jefferson Hwy. 1330 Ochsner Blvd. happiness is based on circumstance, Jefferson, la 70121 Covington, LA 70433 is it a true happiness? Isn't it just a playful escape, a temporary deluwww.VilleSteMarie.com www.forestmanor.com sion? Does a little thin paint on the outside eradicate the rust beneath? Do cosmetics on a corpse make the death go away? I think the diversion is worth Nurse Owned & Managed Locally Owned & Operated something, mind you, But when the reality is so strong, do we Well-Trained, Devoted Staff Wide Scope Of Patient Care have the right to call even Dedicated To Our Patients’ Referral Response Within Christmas a source of true hap1 Hour Dignity & Respect piness? Pain Management & Medicare, Medicaid & Private This "reality" is much more Symptom Control Insurance Accepted troubling than the list mentioned above-the depression, sickness, sulkiness, and aggravations. The reality for a person without 5105 W. Napoleon Avenue s Metairie, LA 70001 Call 504.456.6011 Christ is a permanent state of 24-Hour on-call management available to monitor your services
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non-forgiveness, alienation from God, separation from the true people of God forever, and hell. Those are the matters that make happiness hard to come by and what makes laughter so fugitive for the thinking person. Even joy based on family can elude you. Everything is moving, changing, shifting. You cannot rest on anything to bring solid, standagainst-all-odds joy but that which is permanent. And that which is permanent is God. When the angels sang about Christ's birth, they said that they were bringing tidings of "great joy." Great joy?—yes, joy for every person who will come to Him by faith. It is in the relationship with God through Christ where joy is found. If a person is related to God through His Son Jesus Christ, then joy, that deeper happiness that is more than a facial characteristic, is a birthright blessing. The true Christian should be joyful because his sins are forgiven, his place in heaven is secure, his life is in-dwelt by God's Spirit, and he has an open door to God's throne room. No matter what happens, he always has reason to rejoice because the big things are taken care of, and the Spirit in him promises to help him through all the rest. In a word, his joy is not based on circumstance, but on huge unchanging facts and an even bigger God behind the facts. For sure, some true Christians forget what they have and need a refresher course on what is provided for them, but on the main you will notice that true Christians have joy that is bigger than circumstances. I'm not saying this about pseudo-Christians, of course, the church-goers who really don't know Christ. Christmas then is not the season to be jolly, as if the other seasons are the opposite. But it is the reason to be joyful. Christ's coming to the earth, His perfect life and sacrificial death as a substitute for sinful people like us, is certainly a reason for joy to all who will come to Him by faith. Is that you? If you are one of those who have not come to Christ, then the best you can do this season is to hope See 'Tis the Season on Page 17
Seniors
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Changing Times
Braids of Glory By Pam Ford Davis I stood behind Grandma, as she sat in her favorite over-stuffed chair beneath the living room picture window. Light from the sun served as spotlight upon our families’ leading lady. With uncertainty, I wove her gray hair into three strands and began the braiding process. I sensed tension in her neck and shoulders release as she entrusted me with the styling of her long thinning hair. This saint’s well-trained hands once brushed aside wisps of perspiring hair from foreheads of expectant mothers. A licensed practical nurse, she eased them through difficult hours of child labor. She now required the inept aid of a grandchild. Agility and strength of body had waned in recent years but her heavenly Father continued to enable her; in faith, she received providential care. As a sustaining, threefold chord, His purpose, promises, and peace strengthened her. Through prayer and enduring love, she patiently endeavored to pass on His purpose to my sisters, brother and myself. I continued to braid three strands of yellowing silver on the nape of her neck. Awkwardly, I moved my hands back and forth…to the left…across to the right. The scent of sweetheart soap from earlier grooming wafted to my nostrils as I stood with head bowed, working. Only now, as the Lord has blessed me with the role of grandmother, do I sense the significance of those fleeting moments of giving of myself through simple service. She had always been the perfect role model. Her life was a demonstration of willing deeds of service to Jesus, her husband, sons and grandchildren. Three generations
fell under the godly influence and intercessory praying hands of Grandma Grace. Grandma’s health continued to decline and she became bedridden. She was in the care of her dutiful husband and my aunt and uncle, in whose home my grandparents resided. I went to visit and my aunt urged me to join Grandma in her bedroom. With encouragement, I pulled back homemade quilts and lay alongside Grandma. The warmth of her body and labored breathing were in stark contrast to starched linen sheets and my cold clammy hands. I saw a large antiquated commode chair next to her bed. The bathroom, only one room away was as a distant destination. My aunt, bearing the dead weight of Grandma could barely lift her from the bed to the adjacent commode. It was soon evident to all; my aunt could no longer provide sufficient care for Grandma, who was no longer able to roll over by herself. As a result, she had developed bedsores. With broken hearts, her family admitted her to a small nursing home. Grandpa, following sixty-five years of marriage could barely cope without her presence. I accompanied Dad during a visit to the convalescent facility, housed in a large old family dwelling. I trembled and choked back tears when I approached her bed. She did not waken and death seemed inevitable. Her Lord shortened suffering and welcomed her home. Angels wrapped her braided hair around a crown of glory, voicing worship to the King! The heavenly host in perfect threefold harmony, heralded their chorded message: “Holy, Holy, Holy!” >
'Tis the Season Continued from Page 16 for good circumstances and a kind this holiday time could become the of blamelessness about your actual best news you have ever heardsituation before God. But things good tidings of great joy! could be different and the coming Copyright © 2015 Jim Elliff > of Christ that you are singing about Family Owned & Operated Since 1990
vazquez Seafood & Po-Boy ReStauRant Open Monday-Friday • 10am-8pm — Sat. 10am-2pm
985-893-9336 515 E. Boston St., Covington, LA 70433 Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance. – Proverbs 1:5
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Marriage
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How to Protect Your Marriage from Lust Temptations By Angie Lewis
I Do.
Protecting our marriage from the world is a serious matter and one that both husband and wife need to work on. There are people in the world who simply do not care if you are married or not. They may try to seduce your spouse just for the thrill of it. Ungodly behavior happens every day and everywhere in society. You might be at work, kids’ soccer game, at the park, or simply doing your daily errands when someone tries to seduce you. What are you going to do about it? So how do a husband and wife protect themselves from prying eyes, emotional infidelity, lustful stares, flirtatious advances and those who simply wish to break apart what God joined together as one flesh? By being committed to your marriage! Commitment is not that difficult once we truly understand how God intends marriage to be. Marriage is a union that belongs to God and couples should be trying to protect the sanctity of their marriage every single day by their commitment to each other. The “one flesh” of marriage is a beautiful aspect of marriage that should bond two people physically, emotionally and spiritually. This bond should be so strong that nothing can come between you and the man or woman you married. Without commitment the marriage will have many problems and probably not last. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. (Genesis 2:24) How will you know if you are committed or not? Well, anytime we really are not committed in our heart about something we do things that do not protect our beliefs. Commitment takes belief in the upright moral values of marriage. One way we allow the world to enter into our marriage is by our own actions. We have to stop and take a look at ourselves. What is our demeanor like? How do we dress in public? How do we behave towards the opposite sex? What are we showing others when we wear short-shorts, tight jeans, low cut blouses and miniskirts in public? Who are we trying to please, God or ourselves? Modesty is a wonderful virtue; your husband will totally appreciate you for your modesty. It shows him that you care about him and the one flesh of marriage. A woman who dresses modestly is still going to have men look at her, but o n P L A N T A T she is not saying that she is available—
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big difference here. How we carry ourselves also shows a lot about how much our marriage means to us. If we are doing something that we shouldn’t be doing, such as flirting and staring that says to the world that we are available and the ring on our finger will not mean a hill of beans. So if we truly want to be committed to our marriage we need to watch how we carry ourselves around the opposite sex and how we dress. This goes for the guys too. I think it would be safe to say that ninety percent of the ungodliness that is brought into marriage is done by us! Because we are human we will err occasionally but once we know the truth we should be trying to live our marriage for God, not for ourselves. Married people should practice self-control in all areas of their life and if they accidentally err by looking at someone lustfully or flirting with the opposite sex, they should remove themselves from the temptation before it goes any further! Seriously folks, why stay in a place where you will succumb to lustful temptations? Why continue harming your spirit or marriage over something you know is nothing. God helps us to have commitment in our marriage. A lot of people don’t think they need God and they manage their marriage under their own understanding. But look what is happening to marriage today under our own understanding! We all NEED God to help us to protect our marriage. It is His wisdom, His Truths, and His Formula that keeps our marriage free from the world of lustful temptations. We have to protect our marriage from lust temptations every single day! If we find ourselves in a situation where others are flirting with us we simply need to give the signal that we are NOT available. If they don’t get it then run— leave the place. We must turn away from situations that we know to be wrong or that will lead to what is wrong. We need to pray and ask God for wisdom and insight to help us with our temptations, so we can live His will for our marriage. God will give us the strength to just say no, to lustful temptations! For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present age. (Titus 2:1112) Copyright 2015 Heaven Ministries -- http://www. heavenministries.com >
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5 Reasons Why Affairs Don’t Work by Angie Lewis What is the purpose for having an affair? Most people would say it is because they like or love the other person they are having the affair with. Think about this. At one time in your life, you also loved the person you married, right? What happened? Some people have affairs and trysts because they allow their negative emotions to control them. Simply put, they listen to their feelings. Sex outside of marriage is a lack of self-control. Selfcontrol only comes from God. No one has the power to defeat the flesh on his or her own. We all want to be accepted, appreciated and loved and when we don’t get that at home, some of us go out of our way to go get it. But it is morally wrong to go outside the bounds of marriage and enjoy someone other than who we married. So why do some people do it? 1. Affairs simply don’t work because many times they are just a temporary fling. Marriage is (supposed to be) forever. And if the affair is not temporary, one day you might end up marrying the person you cheated with, and later find out the euphoria of the relationship is gone. And now your new spouse nags about your faults. Now what? Should you cheat on your second spouse now to make yourself “feel” better again? 2. Affairs don’t work because you’re married. More than half of all affairs dissolve because the cheater wants to repent and work on their marriage. This says something to all of you who get involved with a married person. Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched. Better yet, don’t get involved with a married person. 3. Affairs don’t usually work because the unmarried partner is desperate for you to divorce your spouse. Their desperate behavior lets you see what kind of a person you have been hanging around with. Sooner or later, if they keep pushing you to divorce your spouse, you’ll leave them and go back to your spouse. 4. Affairs don’t work because after going through all the trouble of moving out of your house and being the bad guy with your children, you actually feel worse than before. This happens a lot. Adultery is not worth the effort. Have you
ever thought about what kind of a person would have an affair with a married person anyway? The reality is most people who commit adultery wish they wouldn’t have done it. But the minority few cheaters will continue to cheat on all their partners until they are physically unable to. They will never find satisfaction within themselves, so they get it from using and abusing others. Fortunately, this is only the minority, but works for both men and women. 5. Affairs don’t work because most of the time it is sexual lust that leads the heart to have the affair in the first place. Some people try real hard to find justification for committing adultery or they blame their spouse. This is how powerful feelings can be. Wrong thinking steers people further and further away from God and closer and closer into sin. A person’s lustful thoughts eventually make him to commit adultery. The need for acceptance and love is so strong in the mind that it leads to sex outside of marriage. The Lord is with you when you are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you. (2 Chronicles 15:2) A person’s infidelity is only the symptom of a greater issue within them. Without seeking out the Spiritual Christ for our spiritual well being, we will remain separate from God and unable to remain selfcontrolled. We need God! Choosing to work on your marriage will make you a stronger and better marriage partner in the long run. You can skip all of this game playing with yourself and become the person God intended you to be. God has made us wise enough to make the right choices for ourselves. We can choose to love the person we married or we can follow the ways of the world. Use the gifts God has given you and work on your marriage. For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. See Affairs Don't Work on Page 22
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Education Goals for a New Year By Charles F. Stanley Identifying some life objectives can lead us into deeper intimacy with the Lord. It can also result in healthier relationships with family and friends, and the peace of mind that comes from a well-planned strategy. As Proverbs says, "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage" (Prov. 21:5). Goals and motivation To begin, I encourage you to write down each of your goals. Let me remind you to keep your mind and heart open to God's desires for you. (Proverbs 16:9) reminds us, Unless we give serious thought "A man's heart plans his way, but to our goals and how to reach them, the Lord directs his steps." That our time, money, and priorities will doesn't mean you are not supposed usually be determined by others. to make plans and set priorities. But
it does mean that on occasion, you will need to adjust your focus as God reveals His purposes for your life. Once your objectives are listed, write why fulfilling them is important. That way, you'll know your motivation for each goal you set. For instance, your plan may be to pay off the mortgage within five years. Why? Perhaps you hope to live without debt or would like the assurance of a paid-for home should anything happen to your health or employment status. The why will motivate you to continue in your efforts when other things come up that could be a temptation to abandon that goal. What's more, in order
to achieve your ambitions, it's important to have an idea of what your objectives are and why they are worth attaining. Types of goals I'd like to suggest a couple of areas to consider when setting goals: Your spiritual goals are of utmost importance. Perhaps you need to reexamine your quiet time—or start one if you don't already spend time alone with God. Plan when and where you will meet with the Lord during the week. Don't leave it to chance. Unless you set aside time, other things will fill your schedule. See Goals for a New Year on Page 22
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How to Be a Growing Christian Dr. Adrian Rogers
Do you know and love the Lord Jesus Christ better today than you did last year or last week? Are you a growing Christian? If you don’t love Jesus Christ more today than you did yesterday, you’re backslidden. Some Christians are saved, but they’re not growing. Unlike that tree (Psalm 1:3) talks about, planted by the rivers of water, growing, flourishing, bearing fruit—they’re like a stump. They don’t grow. You will never know the kind of victory and joy God has for you until you learn to be a growing Christian. When you think, “growing Christian,” think “maturity.” You grow on toward maturity. You can be young only once, but you can be immature for a long time. You can be 50 and still be spiritually immature. I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father. I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the Word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. (1 John 2:12-14) Are you growing? Here are some ways you can tell. What do you think about? “I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake.” (v. 12) One of the first signs that you are growing
in Christ is that you think about what Jesus has done on your behalf. You reflect upon it and you praise Him for it. Your sins are forgiven and you’re on your way to heaven. What a glorious thought! What are you doing with your life? You’re saved, but you don’t stop there. You develop muscles and become a strong warrior to the glory of God. “Ye have overcome the wicked one” (v.13) and “ye are strong.” (v. 14) You become an active member of the Lord’s army. Let me ask you: Is the devil afraid of you? Are you an over-comer or are you overcome? If you are saved and still sitting on the sidelines, shame on you! Indeed, shame on all of us if we’re not exhorting and encouraging one another to lay down our lives to get into active service for our Lord! Are you evangelizing and disciplining others? “I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him that is from the beginning.” (Vs. 13-14) A father is one who has children. Do you have any spiritual children? This is a mark of a growing Christian—that you are multiplying yourself (what God did in you) by sharing it with others. When you appear before the throne of God, will you be standing there alone? Or will you be standing with children you have “parented” in Christ? Do you know why we have so many flabby Christians? They come down the aisle of the church, get baptized, then come Sunday after Sunday and just sit, soak, and sour. They do not exercise. They don’t have daily quiet times; they’re not sharing Christ in their communities and neighborhoods; they’re not ministering in their church. Do you want to be a growing Christian? Here are some practical suggestions to get those spiritual muscles in shape: • Join a church and get involved. Become part of the Sunday school, a discipleship group, choir, ushering, hospitality, or small group ministry. • Find a ministry in your com-
munity: -Call a community center and see if there are any widows who need work done on their homes, in their yards, or on their cars. Then share Christ with that dear one. -Call a children’s home and see if you can come out and read Bible stories or share a great Christian DVD with these who need Jesus. -Call your local jail and see if they have an opening for someone to lead a Bible study. -Call a sports league to see if there’s a basketball or softball team that needs a coach; then become a spiritual mentor. -Call the hospital and see if you can visit the waiting rooms to hand out Christian tracts and offer spiritual support to family members and friends. Take inventory now. Your goal is to be like the Lord Jesus Christ, a Christian who can reproduce, has fatherly wisdom, and as a father, meet the needs of others. Copyright 2015 Love Worth Finding Ministries >
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Perhaps this is the year to stop enjoying the benefits of fellowship without giving back to your faith community—check out church ministries Another spiritual goal would be to join a you could join to help your Christian brothers small group within your church—such as a Sun- and sisters or people who don't yet know the day school class, prayer team, or support group Lord. And if you attend a church but have never that seeks to find God's answers to difficult joined, consider becoming a formal member. questions. If there aren't any small groups within Character goals are vital to your growth as a your church, you might offer your time and spouse, parent, child, friend, pastor, boss, or energy to facilitate one. employee.Try asking these questions: Serving is another spiritual goal to consider. What would I like to become? What one thing would I like to see God change in me? 54296 Hwy. 445 • Loranger, LA 70446 • 985-748-6634 What character quality—if www.solomoncenter.org developed—would make me a better parent, sibling, friend, etc.? Plan Your EvEnts with us! My son Andy once shared his charCome and enjoy the beauty and serenity of one of the premier conference and retreat centers in the U.S. Located 12 mi. north of Exit 47 (HWY 445 / Robert Exit) Interstate 12; Amenities include: acter goal with me. It has three parts: Spacious and well equipped meeting space to fit different group sizes; Excellent home-style food; 1. A husband worth respecting Chapel; Well maintained hiking/biking/running trails; Pool and Pavilion with picnic tables and volleyball / basketball; 12 acre lake (fishing permitted); Campfire pits; Large playing field for sports and 2. A father worth imitating recreation; Free Wi-Fi and much more! 3. A leader worth following The ideal Visit our And why did he feel those objecsetting for website tives were important? "That is what for more finding God has called me to be," he said. "To pictures, renewal, move in this direction will lead to a information rejuvenation, deep sense of accomplishment and and our and peace. satisfaction. To become these things semi-annual Goals for a New Year Continued from Page 20
www.changingtimes.info will make my time on earth worth having been here. . . . It will set a pace and direction for my children that, if followed, will ensure for them the best quality of life they can experience as well." Andy knows why he wants to achieve this goal. That motivation will help him in the choices he makes and will guard him when temptation comes. Get started Determine the areas of your life that need specific goals, and go to work. Whether objectives involve finances, relationships, or health, don't waste time feeling sorry that you didn't take action sooner. Instead, begin to establish where you want to be six months or a year from now, and ask God to give you the strength to stay on track. Enlist a friend to hold you accountable and periodically check up on your progress. To ensure that you use your time well, sit down and make a schedule for the coming days. When the year ends, you will be among the minority who ended the year with more accomplished and less left undone. Adapted from "Charles Stanley's Handbook for Christian Living" (1996). © Ochristian >
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Affairs Don't Work Continued from Page 19 (Titus 2:11-12) Angie Lewis is the author of four marriage books offering marriage tips and wisdom filled answers tackling such issues as addiction, adultery, pornography, emotions, beliefs, forgiveness, communication and much, much more. Adultery Pandemic is Angie's latest book. Turn Your Marriage Into A Success! If you want to restore your marriage from the demoralizing effects of adultery, then look
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no further - this is the book for you! Your Marriage Can Be Restored! A treasure book filled with effective guidance for your marriage from forgiveness and trust to recommitting your lives to each other again. Practical and easy-toread, this book combines the solutions and remedies your marriage needs towards recovery. This book will give you the guidance you need to discover the true secrets to a happy, lifelong marriage. To preview these books go here: http:// www.lulu.com/AngieLewis/ Marriage Resources-http://www.heavenministries.com/ Article Source: http://www.faithwriters. com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS >
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Health Living Food vs. Dead Food by Dr. Don Colbert
All foods are not created equal. In fact, some foods should not be labeled "food" but rather "consumable product" or "edible, but void of nourishment." Living foods were created for our consumption. They exist in a raw or close-to-raw state. Living foods include fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, and nuts. They are beautifully packaged in divinely created wrappers called skins and peels. Living food looks robust, healthy, and alive. No chemicals have been added. It has not been bleached or chemically altered. Living foods are plucked, harvested, and squeezed, not processed, packaged, and put on a shelf. Living foods are recognizable as food. Dead foods are the opposite. They are living foods that have fallen into human hands and have been altered in every imaginable way, making them last as long as possible at room temperature and
to be as addictive as possible to the consumer. That usually means the manufacturer adds considerable amounts of sugar, which is called "dextrose," "corn syrup", "fructose," "glucose," and generally any other food ending in "ose." It also means they add man-made fats that involve taking various oils and heating them to dangerously High temperatures so that the nutrients die and become reborn as some-thing completely different - a deadly, sludgy substance that is toxic to our bodies. That sludgy substance - which is called "hydrogenated" or "partially hydrogenated" oil - is a common ingredient in the American diet and is present in most processed foods from crackers and pastries to hamburger buns. Life breeds life. Death breeds death. When you eat living foods, the enzymes in their pristine state interact with your digestive enzymes. The other natural ingredients God put in them - vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, antioxidants, fiber, and more - flow into your system in their natural state. These living foods were created for our digestive systems, bloodstream, and organs. Dead foods hit our bodies like a foreign intruder. Chemicals, including preservatives, food additives, bleaching agents, and so on, place a strain on the liver. Toxic man-made fats begin to form in our cell membranes and become incorporated in our bodies or stored as fats. They begin to form plaque in our arteries. Fat also contains compounds called leptins. When the small intestine detects leptins, it sends a message to the brain saying, "I'm satisfied,
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I'm full, stop eating." However, it prone. If you want to be a healthy, takes about twenty minutes from vibrant, energetic person rather the time we start eating for the food than someone bouncing between to reach our small intestine and all-you-can-eat buffets and fastleptin is able to signal the brain to food restaurants, take your diet stop eating, and most Americans seriously. Now is the time to build can eat a tremendous amount of the rest of your life on this wonderfood in twenty minutes. Your brain, ful pillar of health - living food. sending that it still doesn't have the © Dr. Don Colbert > nutrition it needs, sends our hunger signals. You eat again - more of the same dead food. Your body does its best to harvest the Louisiana Osteoporosis Study tiny traces of good (LOS) from the food, but in the end you are The Dept. of Biostatistics is conducting a new undernourished, overfed the wrong research study, LOS, on bone health. This study foods, and over- will recruit subjects to participate. weight. You are, in other words, caught Participants will receive: in the trap of the •Free bone density scan standard American •Compensation for travel and time diet, which is a "SAD" and toxic Eligibility criteria: •18 years or older situation. If you say, •No severe uncontrolled chronic diseases "Everyone around me eats 'bad' food, and they all look fine," consider that For more information, maybe everyone call (504)988-1016 around is unhealthy, Or make an appointment online: http://los.sph.tulane.edu in the process of Or email: becoming over- bonestudyneworleans@tulane.edu weight, and disease-
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If you are a person who thinks about exposure to toxins and wants to give your body as much detox support as possible, beets are a food that needs to be in your diet. Research over the past few years has discovered just how important red beets are in the human diet. Red beet roots and beet juice have a remarkable amount of healing power. Beets are a very good source of dietary fiber, potassium, manganese, folate, Vitamin C, zinc and iron. Red beets also contain polyphenols and betalains. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,polyphenols, a type of antioxidant, are clinically proven to prevent cardiovascular disease in humans. Studies suggest that polyphenols fromred beets and even red beet juice could be beneficial in cancer, osteoporosis, and neurodegenerative disease cases. The second wonderful source of nutrients that beets contain is called betalains. The detoxification provided by betalains includes some especially important Phase 2 detox steps involving glutathione. For detailed information on the detoxification process, refer to my book "Toxic Relief". Antioxidant Benefits Beets are an important phytonutrient rich vegetable and they are loaded with a powerful mix of antioxidants unlike most other foods. Most red vegetables get their deep color from anthocyanins. Beets are unique because of their deep red hue coming from betalain antioxidant pigments. Because they are loaded with antioxidants vitamin C and manganese as well, beets are a premier source of nutrition. About one and a quarter cups from red beet juice daily has been clinically demonstrated to be enough to combat the effects of free radical damage and oxidative stress. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits Many of the unique phytonutrients present in beets also have antiinflammatory properties. Heart disease and atherosclerosis are characterized by chronic inflammation. Beets may be helpful for
example, in preventing the chronic inflammation of heart disease. Preliminary studies are also finding beets to be helpful in Type 2 diabetes which is a major national health problem associated with chronic inflammation. Other Health Benefits Red beets provide potential anti-cancer benefits and fiberrelated benefits. The combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients in beets make them highly recommended for reducing the risk of many cancers. Lab studies on human tumor cells are optimistic for the possibility of helping colon, stomach, lung, breast and testicular cancers. Beet fiber has also been a nutrient of increasing interest in health research. All food fiber is sometimes put into one single category called "dietary fiber," but there is evidence that all dietary fiber may not be the same. Beet fiber (as well as carrot fiber) are two specific types of fiber that seem to provide extra benefits, especially with the health of our digestive tract and even in the prevention of colon cancer. Red beet fiber also may provide benefits for our cardiovascular system. The Healthiest Way to Cook Beets Don't cook beets for too long. Studies show beets concentration of phytonutrients, such as betalains, is diminished by heat. We recommend steaming beets for 15 minutes to maximize their nutritional value. Beets are cooked when you can easily insert a fork or the tip or knife into the beet. If you would like to enjoy red beets raw, add red beets to your morning juice routine or grate some peeled red beets over a salad. This entry was posted in Health Tips by Dr. Don Colbert. >
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Financial
Dave Says
Dave Says
This is about Manhood Dear Dave, My son has worked and saved all through school and will be graduating this year with a degree in electrical engineering. He has a job waiting for him when he finishes, and he wants to move out on his own then. I think he should continue to live at home and save up more money. What do you think? -Sue Dear Sue, Honestly, I think he should move out. This situation isn’t about money as much as it’s about your son becoming a man. At this point in his life it’s going to be really good for him, emotionally and spiritually, to stand on his own two feet. It sounds like you’ve got some good ideas about saving and financial responsibility, and he needs to take some of Mom’s advice in those areas. But it’s time he had his own place and started paying his own bills. It’s time for this one to leave the nest, spread his wings, and fly. Here’s something else to think about. He’s going to look a whole lot better to the world if he’s out there standing on his own. I think lots of young ladies, not to mention their parents, will be much more impressed by a guy who’s making his own way rather than living at home with mom. He’s at a point where he’s reaching for dignity and trying to make his way in the world. Let him do it. I’ve got a feeling he’ll make you proud! -Dave
Whole life for adult kids?
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Financial Straight-Talk by Dave Ramsey www.davesays.com
years ago when one of our sons was injured. He’s 33, his brother is 23, and we’ve got whole life insurance policies on each of them. The combined cash value of the policies is about $21,000. Should we sell them in order to help pay down our debt? -Lori Dear Lori, You’re not responsible for the final expenses of a 33-year-old or a 23-year-old. And the fact that they’re your sons doesn’t change anything. Whole life insurance is a horrible investment. The rate of return is almost nothing. When someone dies with these policies, the extra money you paid to create the cash value is wasted, because the insurance company keeps the cash value. They only pay out the face value! That’s not what I call smart investing. If it were me, I’d cash in both of the policies immediately. Now, if either of them has become uninsurable and you want to transfer a policy to them, that’s fine. Otherwise, they both need to take care of their own insurance and other financial needs. You guys are staring at a lot of debt, and $21,000 will go a long way toward cleaning up that mess. Cash them in! -Dave
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So don’t go to war without wise guidance; victory depends on having many advisers. – Proverbs 24:6
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Why Retirement Before College?
Dear Jen, I advise this approach because everyone is going to retire someDear Dave, I noticed that your Baby Steps day, unless, of course, they happen list puts saving for retirement before to die before reaching retirement saving for your kid’s college fund. age. Retiring and eating are necesSending your kids to college would sities. College is a luxury. Lots of come first on the timeline, so why people succeed in life without going to college, and thousands have do you suggest this? worked their way through college. I -Jen worked 40 to 60 hours a week in
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college, and I still graduated in four years. Having a college fund set aside by your parents is really nice, if they can afford that kind of thing. But you can go to school by getting good grades, applying for scholarships, working your tail off, and choosing a school you can afford. I believe in education, but there are lots of ways to get a college degree other than having your parents foot the bill. The last time I checked, there aren’t any good ways to retire except for getting yourself ready for retirement. I mean, you can always live off Social Insecurity and buy that great cookbook, “72 Ways to Prepare Alpo and Love It,” but I don’t consider that a plan. In short, college funding is not a necessity. That’s why it follows saving for retirement in the Baby Steps. Should you try to save up for your kid’s college education? Sure, if you can. But there are lots of parents out there who won’t be able to pay a dime toward someone’s college education. And that doesn’t make them bad parents! -Dave
ance as an example. I recommend having about 10 times your annual income wrapped up in a good, level term life insurance policy. If you make $50,000 a year, have a family, and you don’t have $500,000 saved up, then your family cannot afford the risk of you dying and losing that income. In cases like this, you buy insurance to transfer the risk. Now, once you have that kind of money saved up, and especially if you have no debt, you won’t need the insurance policy, because you’re self-insured. When it comes to items like warranties on things, I look at it this way: If you can’t afford for the item to break and pay out of your own pocket to have it fixed without it crushing you financially, then you can’t afford that item. Don’t go out and buy some big, fancy computer if you can’t afford the repair shop bill if it crashes. You shouldn’t be buying stuff if you’re that broke. Period! -Dave
* To see if Dave is bringing the Total Money Makeover Live! event to your city this spring, please visit daveramsey.com/category/events. Why insurance and not war- * Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted ranties? voice on money and business. He’s Dear Dave, authored four New York Times bestCan you explain how you view selling books: Financial Peace, More the difference between warranties Than Enough, The Total Money and other types of insurance? Makeover and EntreLeadership. -Anonymous The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 5 million listeners Dear Anonymous, each week on more than 500 radio The purpose of insurance is to stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at transfer risk that you cannot afford @DaveRamsey and on the web at to accept. Let’s look at life insur- daveramsey.com. >
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5 Tips for Keeping your Kids Content During the Holidays By Rachel Cruze Keeping your kids content during the holidays can be a difficult task. With all the marketing and consumerism during this holiday, it’s easy for your kids to get sucked in and expect everything they’ve asked for on Christmas morning. So, how do you keep your kids happy and content during the holiday season? 1. Set expectations early. Discontentment happens when kids expect the whole toy store under the tree and only receive three or four gifts. Make sure their expectations are realistic long before Christmas morning. If a new bike’s not in the budget, let them know. 2. Make a Top 10 list. Of what, you ask? Ask your kids to think of 10 things they are grateful for. Thanksgiving might be a great time to do this, but keep it around all year! 3. Donate old toys. After the new toys wear off, kids usually want more. This cycle will never stop unless you teach them that stuff is just stuff, and it will never bring happiness. 4. Give to someone in need. Many organizations will help you find kids in need during the holidays. And a lot of their needs are actual needs, like clothes and shoes. Knowing other children don’t have as much stuff could be an eye-opening experience for your kids. 5. Go serve. Every city has opportunities. Take a Saturday afternoon with your kids, and go serve for a few hours. Every child needs to experience what it feels like to put giving into action. No matter what you plan to spend this Christmas, make sure you’ve made a budget. We’ve created mychristmasbudget.com, a free online tool to help you put a plan in place long before the Christmas season. As you try to teach your kids about discipline and contentment, this budget tool is a great way to make sure you have reasonable expectations as well! *Rachel Cruze is a seasoned communicator and presenter, helping
Americans learn the proper ways to handle money and stay out of debt. Her new book, Smart Money Smart Kids, co-authored by her dad Dave Ramsey, released April 2014 and debuted at #1 on the New York Times best-sellers list. You can follow Rachel on Twitter at @RachelCruze, online at rachelcruze.com, or at facebook.com/rachelramseycruze. >
Merry CHRISTmas my friends.
When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful. – Proverbs 29:18
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Elijah Soldiers I believe Christians will play a vital part in the end-times battles. It says so in the scriptures "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death" (Rev 12:11). It is clear that the entire Bride of Christ will be actively "destroying the works of the devil" at various levels, in the coming Revival. But what exactly are these works of the devil? To me, they are anything that keeps people bound in sin, misery, sickness or oppression. Jesus said that the thief comes to "steal, kill, and destroy. I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly" (Jn 10:10). So how exactly did Jesus destroy the works of the devil from out of people’s lives in His day? Well, one obvious aspect of Jesus' ministry was His consistent preaching of a very strong and direct repentance message. He also said of His ministry, "The blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel
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preached to them" (Mt 11:5). Truly, His was a ministry of forgiveness, cleansing and liberation aimed especially at the poor, the sick, the broken-hearted, and all who were oppressed of the devil. One thing that seems to be coming is the fact that the army that God is now preparing will attack the kingdom of darkness with incredible preaching through revelations of The Holy Spirit and with reckless daring and ruthless aggression. They will make no `treaties' and they will take no prisoners. I believe that Jesus is waiting at the right hand of the Father until His enemies are made a footstool for His feet. He will truly be with us by His Spirit, triumphantly leading His people into war. All over the world in the past fifteen years or so, God has been speaking of a distinct grouping of ministries that would again arise in great power in the last days. These are the end-times "Elijah" ministries, who are about to be raised up, as prophesied for thousands of years, under a mighty anointing, "preparing the way of the Lord"
and making straight `a highway for our God' (Is 40:3). As we are told in (Mal 4:5-6), "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse." Jesus Himself stated that "Elijah comes, and will restore all things..." (Mt 17:11). There are at least three great men of God in history who have walked under this mighty mantle and anointing of Elijah: Elijah himself, the prophet Elisha, and also John the Baptist (who came preparing the way of the Lord at His first coming). Now that we are approaching Christ's return - the "great and dreadful day of the Lord", we can expect that God will once again raise up bold and anointed messengers, just as prophesied, who will go forth in the spirit and power of Elijah, preparing the way of the Lord once more. "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world
for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come" (Mt 24:14). To get some idea of the rugged and even violent nature of these Elijah ministries, it is necessary to go back and look at the `Elijahs' of the past. There is no question that these were blunt, uncompromising, fearless messengers of God. They attacked the sin and compromise of their day with cutting power, for the full authority of the Living God was behind every word that they spoke. Their words were like a consuming fire, a piercing twoedged sword, a “hammer that breaks the rock into pieces” And they stood unbending in the name of truth and of righteousness, to put to flight God's enemies, to rebuke His wayward people, and to again lift up His `standard amidst the darkness of their time. The “Elijah” ministries will lead God's armies into battle - a glorious army, and no weapon that is formed against them will stand. Save the Nations Ministries >
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Go For Broke Inspired by Vince Lombardi "Winning is not a sometime thing; it's an all the time thing. You don't win once in a while; you don't do things right once in a while; you do them right all the time. Winning is a habit. Unfortunately, so is losing. There is no room for second place. There is only one place in my game, and that's first place. I don't ever want to finish second again. It is and always has been an American zeal to be first in anything we do, and to win, and to win, and to win. Every time you wake up, you’ve got to play from the ground up from the soles of your feet right up to your head. Every inch of you has to play. Some people play with their heads. That's O.K. You've got to be smart, to be number one in any business. But more importantly, you've got to play with your heart, with every fiber of your body. If you're lucky enough to find someone with a lot of head and a lot of heart, this individual is never going to come off the field second. Running a business is no different than running any other kind of organization. The principles are the
same. The object is to win - to beat the other guy. Maybe that sounds hard or cruel. I don't think it is. It is a reality of life that people are competitive and the most competitive games draw the most competitive people. That's why they are there - to compete. The object is to win fairly, squarely, by the rules but to win. And in truth, I've never known a person worth their salt, who in the long run, deep down in their heart, didn't appreciate the grind, the discipline. There is something in good people that really yearns for discipline and the harsh reality of head to head combat. I don't say these things to be brutal. I believe in God, and I believe in human decency. But I firmly believe that any person’s finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all that he holds dear, is that moment when he or she has worked their heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle victorious." • if you aren't fired with enthusiasm, you will be fired with enthusiasm.
• the quality of a person's life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor. • if winning isn't everything, why do they keep score? • the difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will. • The spirit, the will to win, and the will to excel are the things that endure. These qualities are so much more important than the events that occur. • Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off the goal. • We didn't miss our goal; we just ran out of time. • Winning isn't everything, it is the only thing. • The dictionary is the only place where success comes before work. • The spirit, the will to win, and the will to excel are the things that endure. • But I firmly believe that any man's finest hour, his greatest fulfillment of all he holds dear, is the
This also comes from the Lord of hosts, who’s wonderful in counsel and excellent in guidance. – Isaiah 28:29
moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle victorious. • Confidence is contagious. So is lack of confidence. • Hard work is the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you're willing to pay the price. • I am the Fred Astaire of Advertising. • Individual commitment to a group effort - that is what makes a team work, a company work, a civilization work, a community work. • It’s not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up. • Leaders aren't born, they are made. And they are made just like anything else, through hard work. And that's the price we'll have to pay to achieve that goal, or any goal. • Life’s battles don't always go to the stronger or faster man. But sooner or later the See Go For Broke on Page 39
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Ten Ways to Boost Your Spiritual Immune System David Jeremiah
Everybody knows the principles for maintaining good physical health-nutritious food, exercise, pure water, lay off the junk food, plenty of sleep, healthy and loving relationships-right? But, one third of Americans are now obese, and another third are overweight. That means two-thirds of Americans, in
spite of knowing better, are living unhealthy lifestyles. The same is true for the way many Christians approach spiritual health-keeping their spiritual immune systems in top shape. Most of us know what to do; we just have a hard time putting it into practice. The disciplines of physical and spiritual exercise are equally challenging-and the results of inaction and apathy equally life-threatening. So don't think the list that follows is too "basic" or "common sense." Read through this list carefully and prayerfully, and let the Holy Spirit speak to you about boosting your own spiritual immune system. Ten ways to prepare yourself for spiritual "germ warfare": 1. Bible Study (2 Peter 1:4) When troubles in life come, God's great and precious promises are what keep us from becoming infected with fear and doubt. God's
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promises are found in only one place: the Bible. Daily doses of the Word of God are required for continuing spiritual health. 2. Prayer (Philippians 4:6-7) Prayer is like a healthy dose of vitamin C at the first sign of a coldthe first thing we should do when troubles come. Pray for strength, pray for wisdom, pray for help. And most of all, pray for endurance and faithfulness. In prayer we claim God's promises. 3. Scripture Memory and Meditation (Psalm 1:2) The more we incorporate Scripture into our hearts and minds, the more we think like God. When troubles come, instead of trying to think of a Scripture verse, the Word of God is there because that's how we think anyway. Take time to dwell on what God says. 4. Clear Conscience (Psalm 32:5) No one who has a guilty conscience-one defiled by unconfessed sin-can be spiritually healthy. Guilt leads to physical complications, and it certainly leads to spiritual illhealth. How can we call on God in times of trouble when we harbor sin in our lives? 5. Worship and Church Attendance (Hebrews 10:24-25) A healthy human is a worshiping human-but not worshiping just anything. Because we were created by God, we are destined to worship Him. Failure to worship leads to isolation, introspection, and infec-
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tion with the disease of self-centeredness. 6. Service (1 Peter 4:10) Because we were created to serve, we will only be truly spiritually healthy when we are using our spiritual gift(s) to serve others. If we fail to serve, we atrophy-lose our strength and shrivel up. Discover your gift(s) and stay healthy and strong by serving. 7. Relationships (Proverbs 22:24-25) The better part of wisdom is to avoid unnecessary contact with carriers of contagious diseases. The same is true spiritually speaking. Anger, bitterness, resentment, envy, and other carnal characteristics can be caught and spread. Choose your friends wisely. 8. Lifestyle (Proverbs 3:5-6) Living a healthy lifestyle physically doesn't guarantee perpetual good health-but your chances are better. The same is true spiritually. Living a lifestyle of wisdom, acknowledging God in all your ways, is foundational for spiritual health. 9. Giving (Luke 6:38) It takes an investment in a healthy lifestyle to strengthen your body's immune system. Investing your resources-time, talent, and treasurein your spiritual life will return to you an abundant spiritual health. We reap what we sow physically and spiritually. 10. Fellowship with Other Christians (Romans 12:10) Remove a part of the human body and set it aside, and it dies within minutes. Remove yourself from relationships with others, and the same is likely to happen spiritually. You are a "cell" in the body of Christ, and you must stay connected to be nurtured as a part of the whole. How healthy is your immune system? You will be healthier spiritually when you implement more of these principles consistently. And the healthier you are, the more likely you are to withstand the infections of this world. This article was excerpted from Turning Points, Dr. David Jeremiah's devotional magazine. Call Turning Point at 1-800-947-1993 for your complimentary copy of Turning Points. >
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Prayer - Resource for Victory By Theodore Epp In the book of Ephesians, prayer reaches the highest pinnacle of any place in the Bible. Two of Paul's prayers are recorded in this book. The first prayer (1:15-21) was for the believers to have the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ. The second prayer (3:14-21) was for believers to have an experiential knowledge of Christ's indwelling work within believers. In connection with the spiritual armor of believers, another reference is made to prayer: "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints" (6:18). Here we see that in addition to taking on the entire armor of God, believers are to be constantly praying. Prayer is not regarded as part of the armor, but the believer who has on the armor is to persevere in prayer. (Romans 13:14) tells us to "put . . . on the Lord Jesus Christ," and this is done by prayer, for Christ is made real to us through prayer. In order for believers to stand
victoriously in the conflict--even with the complete armor--there must be constant, earnest prayer. It is through the prayer of faith that the believer's armor is first put on, and then becomes effective. Since prayer is associated here with warfare, the indication is that prayer itself is part of the battle. Our Savior knew of the battle of prayer, for He agonized in prayer. While He was in the Garden of Gethsemane, He thought about His coming death on the cross "and being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground" (Luke 22:44). The word translated "agony" refers to a conflict, fight or contest. Here it denotes severe emotional strain and anguish. Jesus was having an intense struggle in prayer because of the cross that loomed before Him. Prayer is a conflict in itself, and it is vital in the spiritual warfare in which every believer is involved. Notice from (Ephesians 6:18) that praying and watching should be done "with all perseverance." This
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doesn't mean that we defeat Satan by working and striving in prayer, for we have already seen that Satan is a defeated foe because of Christ's work on the cross. However, our agonizing in prayer has to do with our taking our position in Christ as the victorious one. We are to "fight the good fight of faith" (1 Timothy 6:12) by means of prayer. Praying in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17) tells of the "sword of the Spirit"; (verse 18) tells of praying "in the Spirit." Just as human weapons are of no value in spiritual warfare (2 Corinthians 10:4), prayer that is not in the Spirit is also of no value. A prayer that is lovely to listen to - may not necessarily be "in the Spirit." Some believers may not know how to express themselves adequately in prayer before others, but they may be praying effectively in the Spirit. Prayer is effectual when it has its origin with God. God sees the whole battlefield and knows the Devil's plans. God decides the place and part of every soldier in the conflict, and He directs the movements of the entire spiritual army. Since
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God sets forth definite objectives to be carried out in His eternal purpose, He must also implant in us our prayers for spiritual victory. God communicates to us through the Holy Spirit the prayers we are to pray. The Holy Spirit lays the proper burden on us, motivates us and gives us the thoughts to pray (Romans 8:26). So it is God who gives the deep sense of urgency for prayer and who also gives assurance of victory. We don't know where Satan has placed his snares and pitfalls; but if we are alert to the Holy Spirit, He will stimulate prayer within us so we will be forewarned and fully ready with the provided armor. We should be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's work in our lives as He prompts us to prayer and gives assurance that our prayers will be answered. Even though we don't know what to pray for, the Holy Spirit will prompt us and will pray through us. The Father, through the Spirit, See Victory on Page 37
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They went in whatever direction the spirit chose, and they moved straight forward in any direction without turning around. – Ezekiel 1:12
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Responding to His Call He Will Fight Your Battles by John Piper
As we headed south from Banner Elk, North Carolina, there was a long steep grade curving through the Blue Ridge Mountains. We saw a sign that said “runaway truck ramp one mile.” We wondered how in the world a ramp could be built that would stop a truck with no brakes as it barreled down the mountain. Then in a moment we
saw it, branching off to the right like a spur on the road and slanting only slightly uphill and maybe 50 yards long. But it was all sand. One big mound and then a series of small mounds. It was the soft, deep sand that would stop the truck. The first nine chapters of 1 Chronicles are like a runaway truck ramp. They stop us when we ought to be trucking right on Restaurant through the Bible. I wonder how many people resolve to read through the Bible, Special Italian Food but instead grind to and Pizza Pie a stop in the sandy genealogies of (1 Chronicles 1-9). They are very hard to get over. But the irony is that the highway through 1 and 2 Chronicles is dotted frequently with scenic overviews of God’s gracious purpose. If we can Serving the people of new orleanS Since 1957
get through the sands of chapters 1-9, these scenes are a tremendous refreshment to our faith. Here’s one example to encourage you to dig yourself out and keep going in the Blue Ridge Parkway of God’s revelation. Sennacherib, king of Assyria, came up against Jerusalem when Hezekiah was king. So Hezekiah gathered the people and the commanders together in the square at the gate. If you memorize what he said to them you will know the power of God in a new way. He said: Be strong and be courageous. Do not be afraid or dismayed before the king of Assyria and all the horde that is with them; for there is one greater with us than with him. With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the LORD our God, to help us and to fight our battles. Then the writer adds, “And the people took confidence from the words of Hezekiah, king of Judah” (2 Chronicles 32:7, 8). I want it to be said of me, “The people took confidence from the words of John Piper,
pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church.” That’s my goal: “the advancement and joy of your faith.” What is the “King of Assyria” in your life? Whatever it is, remember: “there is one greater with you than with him!” If you trust him, the LORD almighty is on your side and will fight your battles! “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today…The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be still” (Exodus 14:13, 14). It is good to be back, Pastor John ©2015 Desiring God Foundation. Used by Permission. >
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Thank God for Grace! We realize that without the grace of God none of us would have a chance. We need the grace of God in our lives. We need it daily. We experience it, and we're saved by it personally. But we also stand in grace. We believe in the love and grace that seeks to restore the fallen. I believe in seeking to restore those who have fallen, as Paul taught to the Galatians, "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." (Galatians 6:1). I thank the Lord for the grace that I've received, and having received God's grace, I seek to extend it to others. We seek to minister to hurting people. Our desire is to see them restored, back on their feet, functioning again. John tells us that the Law came by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. If I am to be a minister of Jesus Christ, then I must be ministering grace. Jesus says, "Whoever is without sin first cast the stone, neither do I condemn thee." I believe that it should be our joy
and our privilege to be able to restore many who were condemned by the law. I do believe that before restoration, there must be true repentance. I believe that the Law was intended as a schoolmaster to bring people to Jesus Christ. Those who have not come and repented need the Law, thus there is a place for the Law. It is holy, righteous, and good, if used lawfully. Jesus stood for grace and truth. We should always seek restoration, but let us not forget that repentance is necessary. It’s wonderful to see a life that's been battered and bruised become fruitful again for the kingdom of God. In the Book of Judges we read of the continuing cycle of infidelity on the part of the Israelites. It's almost disgusting to see how the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and how the Lord gave them over to their enemies. They would be in bondage, and then, after about forty years, they would cry to the Lord. God would hear them and would send a deliverer, and things would go great for a while. But then, the children of Israel would
do evil again in the sight of the Lord, and again they would go into captivity. We see this same cycle in our lives. When things are going great, we have a tendency to slack off. And then when we get into trouble, we cry unto the Lord. Every time I read Judges, I get upset with the children of Israel. I think, "How can you turn your back on the Lord? Can't you see what's going on? Can't you see the cycle that is taking place?" As I look at church history, I see much the same thing. God rises up a new movement. It's born of the Spirit. There's excitement and revival. There's a powerful moving of the Spirit. Consider some of the modern movements, when God used men like John Wesley and Martin Luther. It is evident that the power and the anointing of the Spirit were on their lives. Yet when we examine the Methodist and Lutheran churches today, with few exceptions, they are laced with modernism. There is a great scarcity of the Spirit, even a denying of the power and gifts of the Spirit. But the movements were born of
the Spirit. And so goes the history of the church. God rises up a new work and begins a new movement. The Lord allowed me to spend the prime years of my life failing, until He finally got me to the place where I realized that I really had nothing to offer. Then I began to simply lean on the Spirit and depend upon Him. It was then that I was able to watch God work by His Spirit. I wasn't tempted to take the glory for what God was doing. He brought me to the cross and emptied me of myself and my ambitions. When God began to work by His Spirit, it became a joyful, thrilling experience just to see what God was able to do. Many times there is the necessity for this emptying process. When Gideon said, "Lord, my family is one of the poorest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family," rather than disqualifying himself, he was actually affirming that God had found the kind of a man He was looking for, one who would not take credit or glory for the victories, but would give God the glory. Save the Nations Ministries >
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The Christian Journey
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God Sees An Army by Bernard Capello
(Ezekiel 37:1-10) The hand of the LORD was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the LORD, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones, And caused me to pass by them round about: and, behold, there were very many in the open valley; and, lo, they were very dry. And he said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord GOD, thou knowest. Again he said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the LORD. Thus saith the Lord GOD unto these bones;
Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live: And I will lay sinews upon you, and will bring up flesh upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and ye shall live; and ye shall know that I am the LORD. So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone. And when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in them. Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live. So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army. Can these bones live? There are sometimes situations that, in our minds, seem to have no answer. We serve a big God and there are no situations that He does not have the solution. But when we
lose sight of this we start to stare at the dry bones lying in disarray. When our faith is in the wrong object we begin to see failure in lieu of hope. It may be a time wherein hopelessness captures the throne of our thoughts. It is a place where life and hope once flowed freely with great value in return but now life flows out with nothing in return. It is a place where dead and dry bones lay stacked in seemingly useless disorder. It could be any problem, any situation, any concern. Anytime our faith is placed upon the wrong object things can certainly appear dead, dried up, forgotten and gone forever. It is a place where only small dreams appear and hope seems to have passed us by. Where at one moment we danced in joy and rejoiced we now expect little to nothing. It is a place where we cope from moment to moment and often the only hope is seemingly found in our own strength to cope, moment by moment, inch by inch, day by day, lost in despair. This is the place wherein our faith is removed from Christ and Him crucified. We view the situation bigger than what our
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God did for us at Calvary and therein lies the issue. You did not start dry and dead. Your passion was birthed with big dreams and big visions with big faith dedicated to and flowing from a Big God. Where did you go wrong, where did these dry up, when did they die? What once thrived from the constant replenishment of life now remains alone, dry and hollow. Will these bones remain still? Will they remain dry? It seems in our thinking that this dry place will only yet keep these bones still. We cannot restore life through our power, yet there is hope. Bringing into Alignment While the scripture given is certainly a vision regarding restoration of the Jewish people, it is also a pure picture of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s keeping power. It is a pure picture of His taking what is dead and by the breath of His Spirit blowing new life into what was once lifeless. Hope that is pulled from our resilience is not hope but simply strength from within. To pull our-
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A Deeper Study Into The Word of God 7 Attitudes that Hinder Recovery from Sexual Sin By John Doyel Why is recovery from sexual sin so incredible difficult? I believe millions of Christian men and women have realized that they have become hooked by this powerful sin and feel so defeated because it seems like no matter what they do they keep coming back for more. I know because I wrestled with it for 41 years. One piece of the recovery puzzle is realizing what you are up against. We all have a “flesh” or “sin nature.” We all live in a fallen world that has made access to sexual materials immediate and limitless. We are at battle not with flesh and blood but with the principalities and powers of darkness. However, let’s dig a little deeper and reveal some spirits or attitudes that we have developed over time that only cause stumbling and make recovery more difficult. 1. The Spirit of “I Don’t Care” This spirit springs to life at the most inopportune times. When we are stressed by other things and driven by busyness it whispers, “Hey, you deserve a break from all this. Acting out will make you feel good.” Your Prefrontal Cortex of your brain shuts down as the animal instinct of your Amygdala kicks in. Reason has left the room and you act on instinct. 2. The Spirit of Curiosity This spirit tends to show up when we are bored. Online for no specific purpose or channel surfing late at night is the breeding ground for curiosity. What can I find? I’ve got news for you…you can find anything and everything you want but should not want to find. There is a master fisherman who will cast a lure near you hoping to catch your attention, but the lure will always have a hook hidden inside. 3. The Spirit of Denial How long have you been in denial before realizing that you really have a problem and you need help to break free from sexual sin? I lied to myself for eight years believing I could stop and that I was not addict-
ed. Also, while in recovery we may have a slip or a fall—and denial keeps us from taking a serious look at what led to the fall. Denial is always pulling us back into isolation and screams into our ears when we are trying to head into the light. 4. The Spirit of Self-Loathing There is an image that I found online that sums this one up. It is a cartoon of a man pulling his head apart and there is a parrot inside where his brain should be. The parrot is saying, “You are sh*t.” We heap condemnation upon ourselves and wonder why we are feeling so horribly about ourselves. You probably have a library of condemnation tapes playing in the background. 5. The Spirit of Fear Fears are the chains that keep us in isolation. We live in fear of someone discovering the truth about what we have done. We panic at the thought of our lives becoming a train wreck. The shame of our failures being revealed keeps us from telling the truth. If I had been a better man I would have admitted long ago that I had a serious problem and gotten help. My silence only took me deeper into my sin and caused even more pain. 6. The Spirit of Pride Pride is thinking too highly of yourself. It is believing that you are more important than you are and more important than others. Its counterpart is false humility, which is a form of pride by appearing that you are less than you really are. Pride keeps us out of touch with reality. It tells us we are really good at this recovery stuff and we are not as bad as all those others. So, we really do not have to do the hard work of recovery. 7. The Spirit of Laziness A spirit of laziness will take us to a place where we are fat, dumb, and unhappy. This creates more feelings of self-loathing and more urges to act out. As this takes place over the years, a little bit at a time, we find ourselves in horrible shape mental-
ly, physically and spiritually. I have only touched briefly on these spirits. A fuller discussion on all of them can be found either in eBook form on Amazon Kindle or on my blog: 180blog.org. I send out daily encouragement e-mails for those in the fight to stay pure. Just send me a request atdoyel180@gmail.com. John Doyel was a pastor for 26 years before resigning his position of Senior Pastor due to his sexual addiction. For the past 9+ years he has been living one day at a time, experiencing the grace and healing of God in his life, his marriage, and in his family. He began a ministry at Vineyard Columbus in 2009 called 180: Helping Men Return to God. He has written three devotionals for
men to help in their recovery: 40 Days of Purity, 31 Ways Your Father says “I Love You” and Unconditionally Surrendered to the Spirit. >
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Are you being oppressed by demons in your home or life? Are strange things occurring? Are there noises? Have you sought help from a pastor or deliverance ministry? Sadly, instead of these efforts helping, sometimes things get worse. These efforts can give demons open access to your life that was taken away at the cross. This plan comes from Roger Morneau and is outlined in an interview contained in one of the links below. The follow are my words, but follow his outline. Notice what the Bible says about God’s redemptive power over the powers of darkness and our liberation: (Luke10:19) “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” (2Cor.10:4,5) “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” (James 4:7) “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (Col.2:10,15) “And you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.... Having disarmed principalities and powers, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” (Col.1:13) “He has delivered us from the power of darkness, and conveyed us into
the kingdom of His dear Son.” (1John 1:7) “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1John4:4) “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1John3:8) “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.” (Rev.1:5) “… and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood…” (Rom.16:20) “And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly.” (Rev.12:11): “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Steps for overcoming this presence: 1. Demons have the right to stay with wherever there are objects that bear the taint of their defilement. Therefore get rid of anything you may have that belonged to, or was developed by, someone who was/is involved with the spirits of the dead (this could even be a Bible that belonged to someone who was involved in this way). Also remove and get rid of any and all material/literature/objects that you have been given by, or relating to, any deliverance ministries, for some of these activities also give demons open access to you. 2. Do not speak to demon spirits for any reason, not even commanding them to leave in the name of Jesus Christ. In the Bible Jesus cast spirits out See Demon Harassment on Page 37
www.changingtimes.info Victory Continued from Page 31 motivates us to pray for what we should (Romans 8:26, 27). Then we, in the Spirit, present our petitions back to the Father in the name of Christ. Even in prayer, we can expect God to work in us to give us the desire to pray and then to energize us as we pray (Philippians 2:13). Praying Constantly The words "praying always" (Ephesians 6:18) suggests alertness as well as praying at all times under all conditions. This is unbroken communion with the Lord, not just set times of coming to Him in prayer. It's good to have definite times set aside to spend in prayer, but we should be talking to the Lord throughout the day as we go about various tasks. Praying constantly in the Spirit has two significant implications: First, it is an admission of our ignorance and impotency in spiritual
Guiding Light conflict--we don't know what to do and we don't have the power, of ourselves, to do anything. Such prayer is heeding the words of (Proverbs 3:5, 6). Second, it reveals to the Enemy that we are totally depending on God because we don't have supernatural wisdom and power. By means of prayer, we are "strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might" (Ephesians 6:10). The prayer warrior is a paradox: Toward Christ he shows conscious weakness and seeks strength and wisdom; toward Satan he shows strength in Christ and stands firm in the place of victory. In ourselves we can do nothing, as is evident from Christ's words in John 15:5. However, in Christ we can do all things, as Paul stated in Philippians 4:13. As we claim our position in Christ through prayer, He will always cause us to triumph (2 Corinthians 2:14). © Eternal Life Ministries >
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810 N. Columbia Street • Suite C • Covington, LA 70433 people remove oppressive manifestations. In doing this work, strongly encourage them to of people, but FORBADE the confess their sins, since such a spirits to speak. He forbade their confession brings a great sense speaking because demons are of freedom to those confessing. lying spirits. They will probably Note the following: “Earnest say a few words of truth, but persevering supplication to God they will also express MANY in faith can alone avail to bring lies, and thus people deceive men the Holy Spirit’s aid in the people. Don’t talk to them; don’t battle against principalities and command them. (Note that powers, the rulers of the darksome people will disagree with ness of this world, and wicked this, so pray for wisdom.) spirits in high places.” Rather, ask the HOLY SPIRIT 3. Early each morning read to cast the demons out. Jesus about the crucifixion of Christ told the Jews that He cast out (Matt. 27:24-54). demons through the power of 4. Daily ask God for forgivethe Holy Spirit (Matt. 12:26ness of sin, whether in thought, 28) and we should do the same. word, or deed. Ask God to Acts19 speaks of Paul going remove these things through the to the city of Ephesus where a blood of Christ, remembering large cult area of demon inthe human heart is desperately volvement was located. He wicked. (Jer.17:9) remained there for two years. 5. Plead the merits of Christ. These followers had formerly 6. Pray for faith and for the been pagans and were deeply power of Christ to save you. involved with lying spirits. The “Faith is inspired by the Holy HOLY SPIRIT did a great work Spirit, and will flourish only as it there, including using Paul to is cherished.” bring about special miracles of 7. Memorize the word of God in healing and casting out of deorder to live a victorious Chrismons (vs. 11,12). You can pray tian life. and ask the Holy Spirit of God © pathtoprayer.com to bring freedom to possessed Demon Harassment Continued from Page 36
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The Triumphant Christian
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The Christian's Guide To Living a Victorious Life Fear of What God is Asking of You – Part 1 By Pastor Eddie Swan of New Beginnings Church Let’s visit (Luke 1). Starting today, I’m going to talk to you about: ‘Fear of what God is asking of you’ – Part 1. Because a lot of times we don’t want to hear what God has to say because we’re just afraid of where He might tell us to go or what He might tell us to do. In the next article, I’m going to cover: ‘Fear of what people might think about me’. And then the last article of the series, and probably the most important of all the messages: ‘Fear of what God thinks about me’. And I promise you, it’s good. So we’re going to talk about what God thinks about you as His child and put away some of those fears and walk
out free in the knowledge of who we are. Amen! So a lot a times talking about fear, many times people we treat God the same way that we treat those people in our lives that are a nuisance. You know the ones I’m talking about. You see them coming in the grocery store and you duck and go down another isle. No, I know you don’t do that, right? Is it just me? Oh, there’s so and so. And we know they’re going to ask something of us and want to talk our ear off or whatever. So we treat God the same way; we try to duck God. Sometimes we treat God the same as we treat people we are avoiding. Is that fear? Maybe God
is going to ask something of me that I’m not prepared to act on. Maybe He’s going to ask me to go be a missionary in a remote country, in like Africa. Or He’s going to ask me to live in poverty in a thirdworld nation. Maybe, He’s going to make me sell everything and give it all up to follow Him and I’m just not ready. And I want you to know a lot of times people say that fear is the opposite of faith. But I’m going to challenge that today. Fear is not the opposite of faith. Fear is faith, but it’s faith in the wrong things. We See What God is Asking on Page 48
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You Cannot CarryYour Own Cross by David Wilkerson
Jesus said to His disciples, "If any man will come after me, let Him deny himself and take up His cross, and follow me" (Matthew 16:24). However, Jesus could not carry His cross and neither can you! As Jesus bore His own cross to Golgotha, led by His tormentors, He was too weak and frail to carry it for long. When He had reached the end of His endurance, His cross was laid on another's shoulder. The Bible doesn't tell us how far Jesus carried His cross but we do know Simon, the Cyrene, was compelled to pick it up and carry it to the place of crucifixion (See Matthew 27:32). What does this mean to us? Would our Lord make us do something He could not do? Did He not say, "... whosoever doth not bear His cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:27)? A cross is a cross, be it wooden or spiritual. It is not enough to say, "His cross was different—our cross is spiritual." Personally, it gives me great hope to know that Jesus could not take up His own cross. It encourages me to know that I am not the only one burdened down to the ground at times, unable to go on in my own strength. Jesus knew exactly what He was saying when He called us to "take up our cross and follow Him." He remembered His own cross and that another had to carry it for Him. Why then would He ask us to shoulder a cross He knows will soon crush us to the ground? He knows all about the agony, the helplessness, and the burden that a cross creates. He knows we can't carry it
all the way in our own strength. There is a truth hidden here that we must uncover, a truth so powerful, it could change the way we look at all our troubles and hurts. It may sound almost sacrilegious to suggest Jesus did not carry His own cross, but that is the truth. God knows that not one of His children can carry the cross they take up when following Christ. We want to be good disciples by denying ourselves and taking up our cross, but we seem to forget that that same cross will one day bring us to the end of our human endurance. Would Jesus purposely ask us to take up a cross that He knows will sap all our human energies and leave us lying helpless, even to the point of giving up? Absolutely yes! Jesus forewarns us, "Without me ye can do nothing" (John 15:5). So He asks us to take up our cross, struggle on with it, until we learn that lesson. Not until our cross pushes us down into the dust do we learn the lesson that it is not by our might or power or strength, but by His power. That is what the Bible means when it says His strength is made perfect in our weakness. Copyright © 2015 by World Challenge, Inc., P.O. Box 260, Lindale, Texas 75771 >
Go For Broke Continued from Page 29 person who wins, is the person who thinks he can. • Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect. • The greatest accomplishment is not in never falling, but in rising again after you fall. • The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand. • Winning is not a sometime thing; it's an all time thing. You don't win once in a while, you don't do things right once in a while, you do them right all the time. • Winning is not everything, but wanting to win is. > Never be in a hurry about appointing a church leader. Do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. – 1 Timothy 5:22
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KNOW – Your Identification With Christ Before you can experience victory, you must have a knowledge of your identification with Christ. This means three things: (1) when Jesus died, you died with Him; (2) when Jesus was buried, you were buried with Him; (3) when Jesus rose, you rose with Him. First, Jesus' death had your name on it. That's the reason the apostle Paul said in (Galatians 2:20), "I am crucified with Christ." Jesus paid the debt we owed with His blood. Second, not only did we die with Jesus, but we were buried with Jesus. He carried our sins into the grave of God's forgetfulness. Thirdly, we have been raised with Jesus. Christians are not just nice people, they're new creatures. We have the same power that raised up Jesus Christ from the dead. We have that power in us. We are new people. RECKON – Your Appropriation Of Christ We must first know our identification with Christ, then we can make the appropriation of His life. The word reckon is a bookkeeping term that literally means to count on it. Reckoning is not just closing your eyes and pretending it to be true. It is appropriating, by faith, what you know to be true. So many of us want to feel victorious, but let me tell you something. Our feelings are the shallowest part of our nature. Salvation is the deepest work of God. And, God doesn't do the deepest work in the shallowest part. We need to get our salvation out of the realm of fickle emotions and begin to reckon the Truth
of God's Word. We must count on the life of Christ in us day-by-day and moment-by-moment. Are you with me so far? YIELD – Your Emancipation Through Christ A country preacher prayed, "Lord, help me to cooperate with you so You won't have to operate on me." We need to learn to cooperate with God. And we do this by yielding. First, there must be the dethronement of sin. (Romans 6:12) says, "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body." You don't have to let sin rule in your body. You have kingdom authority power to be victorious. Take the Word of God and say, "I know my identification with Christ, I reckon my appropriation with Christ and so now I dethrone sin in my life. Satan, you are not going to ruin my life." Second, there must be the enthronement of the Savior. (Romans 6:13) says, "Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God." It's not enough to say, "Satan, be gone in the name of Jesus!" You must enthrone the Savior. You say, "Lord Jesus, right now I put you upon the throne of my life. I yield myself to you." Now, here's the third thing, there must be the enslavement of the saint. (Romans 6:18) describes Christians as "the servants of righteousness." To live the victorious life, you must become Jesus' slave. You may say, "Well, Pastor, I don't think I want to be a slave." Well, you're going to be a slave of Jesus or a slave of Satan (see Matthew 6:24). Being a bondservant to the Lord Jesus Christ is a divine privilege that brings a new freedom (see Romans 6:18), a new faithfulness (see Romans 6:19) and a new fruitfulness (see Romans 6:21). Starting Tomorrow... Starting tomorrow morning, I want you to put these three things into practice - know, reckon, and See Live in Victory on Page 49
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The Triumphant Christian
How A Word From God Can Radically Affect Your Life by Cathy Deaton I woke up at 3 am on March 4, 2011, with this strong thought from the Holy Spirit. People get frustrated and burnt out when they do things that are not what God has told them to do. But... when you are in the center of His Will, the ideas come at breakneck speed and you find that you absolutely cannot carry all them out without God sending others to help you and share your vision. If it is possible, I write things down immediately when I feel the Holy Spirit has spoken. He has never spoken audibly, but when it is your heart's desire to hear Him, He finds plenty of ways to make Himself known to your mind and spirit. And a few times He has spoken so loudly that it felt as if someone were sitting next to me speaking directly to me. I keep a file of phrases, paragraphs, quotes, and Bible verses that the Holy Spirit has shown me will be the topic for an article. But sometimes they sit in the file for months or years before it is the right time to share them. I have found that the timing of God is always perfect, and what you share will minister greatly if it has God's Anointing upon it and is shared in His Timing. When I came across this Word from God, I knew it was time to share. This is October 2015 as I am writing this post, and what the Holy Spirit gave me in March of 2011 has been proven to be true over and over again in my life. I wish I could remember what I was going through at the time. Was I trying to do too many things that were not ordained by God? I'm not sure, but I do know that it was the first time I had a complete understanding of what it would mean to have the flow of my life and work be in sync with the timing and anointing of God upon what I do. It was a huge revelation, and one that I have never forgotten. I am not a naturally creative person, and I am totally amazed at all
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the cute and creative ideas on Pinterest. I could never look at an old piece of junk or torn up furniture and think of a really cool and creative way to use it as a decorative piece for my home. But my life has radically changed since I now understand that it's a waste of time to start a ministry or project if God has not told me to do it - even if I think it is something great. But when I ask God what He wants me to do and walk in obedience to Him, great ideas pop into my head that I never had before. There is always a big project the Holy Spirit has laid on my heart to start. My biggest problem NOW is time to do it and what priority to YP, the even-more-powerful give it compared to the other important things I am doing. And I have Yellow Pages. learned (the hard way) that if God has told me to do something, it is important that I do it - even if others think it is trivial and meaningless. It is important to God, so it is important to me. I have also learned that you must acquire patience if you are to flow in sync with God. I admit that has been a hard thing for me to acquire. In my earlier years, I was one of the most impatient people on the planet. If I decided I wanted something, I WANTED IT NOW! But once you make up your mind to wait on God and allow Him to open the door of direction, He will work in your life in ways you never imagined. It truly is worth it to wait on Him. At the time I am writing this post I am waiting for God to open the spiritual door for something in my life that I KNOW He initiated. I had no plans on my own to do this particular thing, and it has been a long time of waiting. But in this long process, God has revealed many things about Himself that I would have never known had He just given me what He promised immediately. I still don't like waiting, but now I can see why it's necessary. God loves you so much that He wants to do everything possible to prune and grow you so that you can bear the most fruit possible. Sometimes this is a hard process, but the luscious, sweet fruit that becomes a part of your life changes you in ways you never imagined. > Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation? - Hebrews 1:14 MEDIA ( Jewish LIght and OnChristmas 2015 14-30527 PNT UNITED Eagles Wings)
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How to be Sure, You are Saved How tragic it would be if we went through life thinking we were saved and then woke up on Judgment Day to find out we were mistaken! But the Bible teaches that this will be the case with many people. Christ said, "Many will say unto Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? And in Thy name have cast out devils? And in Thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity" (Matt.7:22-23). However, we do not have to go through life without the assurance of salvation. In (1 John 5:13) the apostle says, "These things have I written unto you...that ye may know that ye have eternal life." How then can we have this assurance? This is the most important question we will ever face in life because our eternal destiny is at stake! The Bible teaches that those who remain unsaved will spend eternity in a place of perpetual torment (Matt. 25:46; Rev. 14:911). The reason for this is because their sin has not been paid for, and God's perfect justice requires that payment be made for sin (Rom. 6:23). Therefore, it is vital that we know the answer to this question. This is why the Apostle Peter wrote, "Give diligence to make your calling and election sure" (2 Pet. 1:10). It is true that we must believe in Christ in order to become saved (Acts 16:31), but how can we be sure we have genuinely believed in Him? Certainly we cannot rely upon our feelings since feelings can be misleading. Some might suggest we can be sure by acknowledging the facts of the gospel or saying the sinner's prayer. However, the Bible indicates it is not possible to believe without being born again because by nature we are spiritually dead (Eph. 2:1, 1 Cor. 2:14). This is why Christ said, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3). Therefore, we cannot know we have truly believed until we know
we are born again. But what does it mean to be born again? Is this some kind of emotional experience? No, the Bible teaches that being born again means our life is changed. In (2 Corinthians 5:17) we read, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." The Bible also tells us what changes will take place in our life when we are born again. First, we will not habitually commit sin. "Whosoever is born of God does not commit sin."(1 John 3:9) "How shall we that are dead to sin live any longer therein?" (Romans 6:2) "Religion, in the spring of it, is not an art, an acquired agility and skill, but a new nature. And thereupon the consequence is the regenerate person cannot sin. That he cannot commit an act of sin; I suppose no judicious interpreter understands. This would be contrary to (1 John. 1:9), where it is made our duty to confess our sins, and supposed that our privilege; thereupon, is to have our sins forgiven. They therefore cannot sin, in the sense in which, the apostle says, he cannot commit sin. He cannot continue in the course and practice of sin. He cannot so sin as to denominate him a sinner in opposition to a saint or servant of God."—Matthew Henry Second, we will seek to live a holy life by obeying God's Word. "Everyone that does righteousness is born of Him." (1 John 2:29) "And hereby do we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments." (1 John 2:3) "Where the righteousness of Christ is imputed to an individual, a principle of holiness is imparted to him; the former can only be established by the latter. It is impossible to obtain a Scriptural knowledge that the merits of Christ’s finished See hOW TO bE sURE on Page 47
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The Transformed Life
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Are You Ready for Company? by Nancy Leigh DeMoss
How would you feel if distant relatives showed up unannounced on your doorstep with plans to stay for a week and were eager to take a tour of your house? Would you have to scramble to avoid embarrassment? A commitment to holiness means having a life that is always “ready for company” and “open for inspection”—a life that can stand up to scrutiny—not just in the obvious things, but in the “hidden places” where most might not think to look. Most Christians know how to do a quick pick-up in their lives whenever others come around to take a look. They know how to look and act when they’re at church or want to leave a good impression on a friend. But here’s the real test: what would others discover if they took a closer look at your life? What would they find if they started opening the closets and drawers of your life? This is one of the primary issues Jesus had with the Pharisees of His day. The problem wasn’t with their outward behavior—their lust for human praise made them star performers. But Jesus could see what the people they were trying so hard to impress couldn’t see—their hearts. And that’s where the trouble was. Like the Pharisees, we have an amazing capacity to feel good about ourselves because we don’t commit certain kinds of sins, while brushing off as insignificant the interior pollution of our hearts. We’ve never committed physical adultery, but
we entertain lustful thoughts about someone else’s mate. We don’t commit acts of physical violence, but we harbor hatred toward those who have wronged us and mentally assassinate them or emotionally cut them off. Making It Personal The New Testament authors challenge believers to recognize their position in Christ: justified, redeemed, set apart for His purposes. They also exhort us to live a life consistent with our position. Take time to look up each of the following passages from Paul’s epistles that describes some aspect of what it means to live a holy life. Then prayerfully consider the application questions. Speak the truth (Colossians 3:9– 10; Ephesians 4:25). • Are you deceiving anyone about anything? • Are you more concerned about what others think of you than about what God knows to be true? Put away anger (Ephesians 4:31) • Are you holding anger in your heart toward anyone? • Are you easily irritated? Prone to impatience? Watch your tongue (Ephesians 4:29; 5:4). • Does profanity, unholy talk, or coarse jesting come from your lips? • Do you gossip or slander others? Be sensitive to the Spirit (Ephesians 4:30).
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• Are you sensitive to the things that grieve the Holy Spirit? • Are you quick to respond to the conviction of God’s Spirit when you have sinned? Put on forgiveness and love (Colossians 3:12-13) • Are you holding a grudge or harboring bitterness in your heart toward anyone? Is there anyone who has hurt or wronged you that you have not fully forgiven? • Is your life marked by love? Let His peace rule (Colossians 3:15) • Does the peace of Christ control your life, or do you often fret and worry about circumstances beyond your control? • Do you trust the sovereign wisdom and love of God to order your steps? Embrace your God-designed role in the home (Colossians 3:18-21) • Are your family relationships ordered according to the plan God has revealed in His Word? •Wives: Are you submitting to the authority and leadership of your husband? Do you show reverence and respect in your attitude toward
him and in the way you talk to him and about him to others? Exhibit godly character (Ephesians 5:1) • Is there anything in your life that does not bear a “family resemblance” to God? • Is there any pattern or practice in your life that, if others followed it, would lead them away from God? Be morally pure (Ephesians 5:3). • Is your thought life pure? • Are you chaste and discreet in your relationships with members of the opposite sex? Walk in the light (Ephesians 5:8–10). • Do you consciously seek to know and do what pleases the Lord? • Is there any area of your life that could not withstand the scrutiny of His holy light? © Moody Publishers. Used with permission. Excerpted from Holiness: The Heart God Purifies by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. www.ReviveOurHearts.com Info@ReviveOurHearts.com
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Prayer, the Top Priority It is high time to trade in the pen, the pulpit, and the podium for the prayer closet. A genuine spiritual revival proceeded by genuine spiritual repentance and restoration is the only hope for this nation and this old world. Wise men and women know this to be true. Preaching and politics both fall short in accomplishing the necessary healing that we as individuals and a nation need to rise above the maddening fray of twenty first century existence. I have been privileged to know a few men, women, and ministries that came to this conclusion years ago. As a result, they have been successfully pursuing and practicing a life of intercessory prayer as their number one priority in life as a means to fixing what is wrong with this world. Nations have been changed and turned towards God by the efforts of these mighty prayer warriors. The cost of these accomplishments have been as great or greater than that of any and every solider that has ever been engaged in battle for their own lives, the lives of their fellow soldiers, and the existence of their countries. The only
difference is that there are fewer souls willing to pay this price for spiritual revival than there are for those brave soldiers that are willing to lay down their lives in defense of their respective nations. The price of effectual prayer is so great because it requires a total denial of self and a total resistance of the multitude of distractions that exist to keep them from their goal. These souls have had to press against great internal and external pressures to continue and succeed in this discipline. Prayer warriors of this caliber are exceptions to the rule. In order to carry on, they have had to consistently draw upon the very power of God. One of the many benefits of this lifestyle is that they have been transformed closer and closer into Christ’s character and likeness in the process. May God raise up more devout souls like these, who are both willing and able to pay the price for the salvation of humankind and for the healing of the nations. May it be said of them, “It is for a time such as this that they have come into the kingdom.” Save the Nations Ministries >
Questions to Ask While Reading Scripture
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The purpose of reading the Bible is not to find self-fulfillment, although sometimes that’s an easy trap to fall into. There are some questions we can ask ourselves as we read Scripture to make sure we are reading for the right reasons: •What does this passage teach about God? • What attributes are on display? • What work is God doing? • How does the biblical author point us to God in this text? • Even though God may not be explicitly mentioned in this text, how is He at work in what is happening? How is He directing “behind the scenes?” • How does this passage either reveal or reflect the glory of God? In addition to these informationgathering questions, we can also ask some application-oriented questions:
• Does this passage offer any models of those who miss the point by not seeing God at work and by not focusing on His glory? • Does this passage offer any models of those who get the point? • What can I learn from these negative and positive models? • What does this text teach me about my own pursuits and agendas? • What selfish ambitions and pursuits do I need to repent of in light of what I just read in God’s Word? • What have I learned from this text that helps me keep God and His glory at the center of my life? In short, we need to read the Bible with its grand mission in mind: God and His glory. It is only by living for his glory that we find what is best for us. Save the Nations Ministries >
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The First Step to Planning Your Dream Wedding You have dreamed of this day for so long, everything is perfect. You have found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, the big question has been asked and now you are engaged. Now it’s time to begin planning one of the most memorable days of your life. When planning a wedding, the first thing that you will want to do, is narrow down a date and decide on a venue for your reception, and possibly your ceremony, unless you already have a church in mind. Once your date has been reserved at the venue of your choice, everything seems to fall into place, just like the events that led you to where you are now, happily in love and engaged! But how do you get to that point…a date reserved at the perfect venue. Sometimes, this can be overwhelming, especially when considering every aspect involved in planning your reception. Of course, there is the date and time, but then there is the catering and menu, the beverages, the staff, the decorations, the dresses, the tuxes, the colors, the theme, and the list continues! Don’t let such a wonderful, special event become stressful. Instead of stressing and getting overwhelmed, make Trinity Banquets and Reception Hall the first step in planning your upcoming wedding.
tions, your event will look absolutely gorgeous against the elegance that Trinity Banquets and Reception Hall has come to embody.
Let us welcome you to Trinity Banquets and Reception Hall. Upon walking through the entrance you will be greeted by a mirage of chandeliers. Our ballroom is fully decorated in a chic, contemporary style while maintaining all of the charm of a southern manor. With plenty of room available to accommodate events from 25 to over 450 guests, your guests will find it very easy to settle in and get comfortable. White linens adorn each table accompanied by white chair covers covering each seat. No matter your theme, colors, or decora-
Your dream wedding is just a phone call away, call now to speak with our on staff event coordinator and begin planning your upcoming wedding ceremony and reception at Trinity Banquets and Reception Hall, the Northshore’s premier Caterer and Event Venue.
Our chefs, eager to satisfy any of your culinary needs, will prepare your entire menu fresh in house. You may choose from our Classic Reception Menu or come in to meet with our on staff Event Coordinator to completely customize a unique a la carte menu for your reception, as your satisfaction is our top priority. Our tuxedo clad, professional wait staff will serve hand passed hors d'oeuvres continuously throughout the entire event while you celebrate your union as husband and wife. Your entrees can be set up buffet style, or as “live action stations” in which the presentation is enhanced by an interactive culinary experience in which your guests will have the opportunity to watch, and possibly participate, in the preparation of your favorite selections like shrimp and grits and seared filet mignon bites. Indulge your guests with fresh chocolate covered fruit, pastries, and delights at our chocolate fondue fountain station and send them off with a New Orleans classic, café au lait and beignets, right before the second line serenades the closing of the night’s festivities.
Trinity Banquets and Reception Hall is conveniently located in Slidell, just over the twinspan, close to Chalmette and New Orleans East and servicing the entire Northshore and surrounding areas!
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done. -Philippians 4:6
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Community Spotlight
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An Approach to Healthy Living IDLIFE = INDIVIDUALLY DESIGNED LIFE *Because we are all different
dividual’s medical history, health conditions, prescription medications, heredity, disposition, eating and drinking habits, sun exposure and other factors. Based on the information collected, an assessment is made by the In early 2013, a group of experts in the field of science, nutrition company that is then backed by over 7,500 algorithms to cross-check preand business came together to discuss how to bring a ground breaking new scription medications with supplemental nutrition needs. The result is a product to the marketplace called IDNutrition. ID stands for individually program designed for the specific needs of each client. It is customized to designed. The nutrition was customized to each person. These experts fit your personal needs….thats what you have with IDNutrition. including CEO Logan Stout, knew that based on market research, the best When you really think about it, it’s incredible what the IDLife team has creway to get the product to the consumers was to cut out the middleman by ated . A patented product that is evidenced based. I think that’s the reason means of direct sales or relationship marketing. Logan Stout already had a the company is doing so well because the program takes the guesswork out track record in building multi-million dollar businesses both in the direct of what you need. Everyone wants to look and feel better and we have just sales and in traditional business. There really was no one else that could the products to get you started and on your way to a healthier lifestyle. successfully lead this new revolutionary movement. He wanted a business model where people could individually design their nutrition, health goals, IDLife is one of the most financially sound companies in the network marketing space with endorsements and backing from 3 billionaires. Investors business and their life thus, IDLife was born. include business geniuses Darwin Deason, Len Critcher, Mike Salim and Stout had a reputation as an accomplished business leader, success coach, the Ross Perot family. Also partnered with IDLife are world renowned speaker and bestselling author of Stout Advice: The Secrets to Building speaker, best selling author and #1 rated expert in leadership and manageYourself, People and Teams. He not only rose to the top of network marment according to INC. Magazine, John keting companies as one of their highest earners, he also founded one of Maxwell and Elevate Life Church founder the largest youth baseball organizations in the world, The Dallas Patriots and Pastor, Keith Craft who has shared the and Premier Baseball Academics. stage and spoken alongside former world leaders like Bill Clinton, George Bush Sr., One of the key factors that impressed Logan Margaret Thatcher and former New York Stout and what makes IDNutrition so speMayor Rudy Giuliani. IDLife also has cecial is the patented HIPAA compliant health lebrity partners including professional athassessment. He took the free assessment lete and Fox commentator, Troy Aikman and knew this would be a game changer and fitness trainer Jen Widerstrom, celebin the health and wellness space. Through rity fitness trainer from a well known rethe integration of thousands of medical and ality weight loss show. These are not paid scientific studies and answers individuals celebrity endorsements, they INVESTED provide to the free HIPAA compliant IDAsin IDLife. sessment, the program takes the answers and relates them to the science in the studies to deliver a report with rec- One size does not fit all ! ommendations for each person.
INDIVIDUALLY DESIGNED NUTRITION
With Stout’s experience in tow, he is the perfect person to be “steering the ship” with IDLIFE, which manufactures its products in the U.S. At present the products are offered nationwide, but the plan is to take them into the global market in the future. His desire is to help people from all ages, backgrounds and educational levels reach true success. His passion for health and wellness is evident in his new business venture. When you combine his experience, his passions and drive to improve the lives of others, the result is a very young but booming business. Logan graduated Summa Cum Laude with a business degree from Panola and a Psychology degree from the University of Dallas. He has a background in Youth Ministry and pro baseball. He was a two-time All–American pitcher and shortstop, played professionally with the Fort Worth Wildcats and is still an MLB Scout for both the Atlanta Brave and Texas Rangers. While still in college, Logan began coaching youth baseball and most importantly the game of life, ultimately led to the start of the Dallas Patriots select baseball organization in 2000. In addition to playing college and pro baseball, Logan also coached at Dallas Baptist University and served as a Youth Minister. His interest in nutritional supplements began when he played professional baseball with the Fort Worth Cats. To keep the team in peak health, nutritional supplements were introduced into every players’ diet. One thing Logan noticed: Every single ball player was basically given the same nutritional supplement, with just a few options. He asked himself, how can everyone take the same dietary nutritional supplement if everyone is different? It was his personal history that engaged his thinking about health and wellness. For over 17 years, a group of doctors, scientists and nutritionists have been developing what is known today as IDNutrition = Individually Designed Nutrition, a customized nutritional supplement program based on an in46
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Why IDNutrition:
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www.changingtimes.info Sunday Dinner Continued from Page 14 to eat and talk. Granny was the finest cook in Lawrence County. Her fried chicken was never greasy, her vegetables were fresh from her garden, her pies were made with hand rolled crust and her tea was the sweetest in the south. Do not get me wrong, this is not just a basis assessment by a close relative. When Granny passed away, several years ago, she had requested that I help Bro. Elmer conduct her funeral. I remember he said, “Mrs. Della Mae was the finest cook that ever lived in Lawrence County.” He should know because he put several chickens, over a lifetime, in an early grave by eating at the table of my Granny. When I think of Granny, I always think of the Proverbs 31 woman. Solomon, in training his son, tells him that the woman who tends to the home, takes good care of the household needs, and watches after
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hOW TO bE sURE Continued from Page 42 the children-just to name a few-is to be highly praised. The wise King said, “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised. Give her the reward of her labor, and let her works praise her in the city gates.” (Proverbs 31:30-31) I believe this is the truth! But when we apply it to all believers, we see that there is an act of kindness, both within the home and without that reflects the deep trust and faith we have in God, who loves us more than life itself. Anytime Granny knew we were coming for a weekend visit, she would prepare a chocolate pie for me and my brother and an apple pie for daddy. Then she would sit on the front porch and wait on us. I sure do miss those simple days. © FaithWriters.com >
work are reckoned to my account, except by proving that the effectiveness of the Holy Spirit’s work is evident in my soul."—Arthur W. Pink Third, we will love others, regardless of who they are or what they have done. "Everyone that loves is born of God, and knows God. He that loves not knows not God; for God is love." (1 John 4:7-8) "We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren." (1 John 3:14) "All the fruits of the Spirit which we are to lay weight upon as evidential of grace, are summed up in charity, or Christian love; because this is the sum of all grace. And the only way, therefore, in which any can know their good estate, is by discerning the exercises of this divine charity in their hearts; for without charity, let men have what gifts you please, they are nothing."—Jonathan Edwards Fourth, our affections will not be upon the things of the world. "If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." (1 John 2:15)
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"For they that are after the flesh does mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit, the things of the Spirit...But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man has not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His." (Romans. 8:5, 9) "If our principal treasure is as we profess: in things spiritual and heavenly and woe unto us if it be not so! On them will our affections, and consequently our desires and thoughts, be principally fixed."— John Owen These changes are not the cause of our salvation for we are saved by faith (Eph. 2:8-9). But rather, they are the evidence that we truly have been born again. If they have not taken place in our life, then it is vital that we earnestly seek God and implore Him to regenerate us. He promises that we will find Him, if we seek Him with all our heart (Deut. 4:29), and the way to begin is by reading His Word. The Bible says, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God" (Rom. 10:17). Save the Nations Ministries >
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We can make our plans but the Lord directs our steps -Proverbs 16:9
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Listen, lots of times what we call interruptions are really invitations to join God in doing something supernatural. Now I know lots of start believing the what-ifs. And we do it all the people over the years that have answered God’s time. We get that phone call or we get that IRS call to walk with Him and serve Him and to do envelope, ah, they’re going to audit me! Oh my things with Him. In every one of those times, God! What if? And God doesn’t want us to it’s been a supernatural experience. It’s an invijump into the ‘what-ifs.’ He wants us to jump tation. The bible is full of interruptions that into the place where we say, I know the one that turned out to be great invitations. can get me through anything and so there is no Go with me to (Luke 1:26). This is a story of reason for me to worry. And the moment that we Mary, a teenage virgin girl who lived in a town jump into the, ‘what if’, we jump out of walking called Nazareth. And an angel by the name of in an obedience of faith. Gabriel comes to her, and in this story. The angel Listen to me. It is impossible for you to walk went to her and said, ‘Greetings, you who are out your faith in obedience to God while you are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” (v.29) walking in fear. They do not run on parallel Mary was greatly troubled at his words and tracks. They do not run next to each other. They wondered what kind of greeting this might be. run in opposite directions. You cannot do both. The angel, Gabriel is one of two angels menIf the Holy Spirit lives in you, the bible tells tioned in all of scripture. The ark angels, Gabriel us in (2 Timothy 1:7), “God has not given us a and Michael; these were warriors. I promise spirit of fear but of power and of love and of you, when that angel came into the room, sound mind or self-discipline.” So why are we according to a story in Daniel, when an angel afraid of God’s plans? came to meet Daniel, he and the people with him Why are we afraid of God’s plans? God’s fell prostrate to the ground. They were so afraid interruptions are often inconvenient. at the sight in front of them, they had no idea that these things existed. Listen to me. This angel was a warrior sent to take care of enemies of God and God’s people. God interrupted an eighty year old sheepherder named Moses in St. Tammany through a burning bush. And God says, you, Moses are My deliverer. You from birth have been set aside for such a time as this, right here, right now. Maybe God’s speaking to somebody today. You’ve been dodging See our web site me, like the nuisance in the grocery for information. store. You’ve been trying to duck around me and get around me, but (985) 892-4848 I’m telling you, I’m not leaving you alone because you have something to do for Me. God interrupted the life of a rebellious skeptic named Jonah to go to a town called Nineveh and to preach repentance and forgiveness to that town because God was ready to destroy that city. And Jonah said no, I’m not going. He tries to run and gets on a ship. The ship experiences some rough waters and currents and he says to the sailors, throw me overboard because what you are experiencing is because I’m running from God. They throw him overboard and God’s got another plan, a big fish. I’ll hold you right here until you do what I want you to do. And if you read the story you see he gets spit out right there in Nineveh; probably right on the dock. God interrupted a very religious, zealous man named Saul with a blinding light from heaven. And He radically changed the life of this religious zeal, who was What God is Asking Continued from Page 38
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www.changingtimes.info trying to kill the church. He then became the Apostle Paul, the greatest evangelist and probably church planner to ever walk the face of the planet. He’s saying to us today, if you have Me living in you, you are favored the same way Mary was favored. That should make you feel pretty special! How many of you would love to have that kind of favor? You know you walk in that kind of favor. Alright listen; if you are a believer, if Jesus Christ is the Lord of your life, you have that kind of favor right now. It’s already part of your life. Now go walk in it. Just walk in it. This is how we say it in our house, ‘favor’, ‘favor’! So every time over the next several weeks, something happens to your life, and you see the handprint of God on it, I want you to say it out loud so everyone can hear it, ‘FAVOR!’ Let your wife hear it, let your kids hear it, let your coworkers hear it, let your employees hear it. Why are you talking about, favor? Oh, this incident that just happened in my life, that was God. And that’s God’s favor on my life. The second thing I want you to see in (Luke 1) is this: 2) God’s purpose is often different than your plans. Look at (Luke 1:31), so here’s God’s plan, different than Mary’s purpose. Mary’s purpose was to get married and have a couple of kids. She probably figured out all the children’s names. And God said, no, no, no. You’re going to give birth to a child and you’re going to have a son and give Him the name, Jesus. Don’t even think about picking out some other name. He will be great and be called, Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever. His kingdom will never end. So what is God asking you to do? What is it He’s called you to do? Maybe start a ministry, go back to college, reach out to someone, break up with someone, or try to mend a relationship with a family member or old friend. What’s He asking you to do? And what is your response? Understand this; the outcome is always God’s responsibility. The obedience, on the other hand, is yours. Now I’m not talking about doing things to be right. I’m talking about doing things out of an attitude and out of faith. You understand. Obedience is our faith in action. God, you said to do it and I’m going to do it. Now if this sermon touched you today and you’re like, God you’ve been interrupting my plans and I’m tired of running. I’m tired of trying to dodge you and get away from your calling and from those things. And you’re telling me today, do not be afraid. I’m not worried about your interruptions anymore and they’re not going to be inconveniencing my life. I’m going to walk them out. I understand that I’m favored, that Your purposes, although they’re different than my plans, Your thoughts are higher than my thoughts and Your ways are higher than my ways. And today I want the outcome to be up to you and not about me. So I’m going to step out in faith and I’m going to walk in obedience to what I heard You say. Amen! >
www.changingtimes.info God Sees an Army Continued from Page 34 selves up by the proverbial bootstraps is not hope, it is inward fortitude. Even as noble as appears, it is in simple terms coping day to day. What is it that we are hoping for? Is it a replacement of what we lost or is it a hope and trust in Him to act on our behalf? How many times must He wake us up with our right minds before we trust Him? How many times must He clothe us, put food on our table, heal our aching bodies, remind us that He brought us from death to life, and continue to be a shield and fence of protection for us before we understand? What happened to the Big God that we once prayed to and counted on for providing hope and assurance? As we once moved forward in our responsibility, did we get too comfortable in our ability and strength? Did we simply grow accustom to our thrusting the arc of covenant into battle? It is simply understandable that God will bring us to a place of alignment, pulling our trust away from our ability and back to Him is necessary before He calls it new. The dry bones came together bone to bone with each one attaching to what was his part. God knows what needs to be realigned. What once lived in vibrant worship
The Christian Journey toward Him, what once trusted Him, what once looked to Him for help became dry. Yet, piece by piece it comes together as our own ability and talent begins to take a secondary position, giving in to the ultimate primary position – the glory of God. Folks, He will get the glory out of our lives, one way or another. God Sees an Army What do we see when we look upon this dry place? We see what is current but God sees what will be. How many of us can testify about this dry place knowing what God has done for us in the past? What
looks like despair will one day have new skin, breath, life giving blood and will quench the despair of hopelessness. What looks like dry bones to us is an army in the sight of God. It may not look or feel as though this will come to pass but listen closely and you can ultimately hear the noise, the rattling of the joints coming together. From what was once a beaten soul; a stack of dry bones is being breathed upon, assembling together and declared by God an army of living and thriving believers. Can these bones live? Hear the word of the Lord and choose life. >
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Live in Victory Continued from Page 40 yield. When you wake up, lift your hands to God and praise Him that's acknowledging His Lordship in your life. Then turn your hands up and say, "Lord, not only did You give yourself for me, but You gave Yourself to me. I receive Your fullness." That's reckoning God's Word to be true. Finally, put your hands in the air, bow your head, and say, "Lord, I yield to you. Live your life through me. I'm completely yours." You're going to find out when you walk in do these three things know, reckon, and yield - that God will begin to live His life through you in ways that you never dreamed possible! Copyright © 2015 by World Challenge, Inc., P.O. Box 260, Lindale, Texas 75771 >
Love Y’all, Mike Casso
I sought the Lord; He answered me and delivered me from all my fears. -Psalm 34:4
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Christian Community referrals Attorney Bono Law Firm 3801 N. Causeway Blvd., Suite 206 Metairie, LA 70002 504-835-9909 www.bonolawfirm.com Automotive Body repAir Fradella's Collision Centers Metairie 504-888-1772 Northshore 985-649-1144 Chalmette 504-277-4769 www.fradellas.com Automotive deALers Bergeron Automotive 3525 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, LA 70002 504-888-2131 Honda of Covington 100 Holiday Square Blvd., Covington, LA 70433 985-892-0001 www.hondaofcovington.com premier Automotive Group Toyota of New Orleans • 504-940-0000 Premier Nissan of Metairie • 504-455-5800 Premier Kia of Kenner • 1-866-744-5083 ross downing Chevrolet 600 S. Morrison Blvd., Hammond, LA 70404 985-345-1285 www.rossdowningchevrolet.com Automotive repAir Zoom tech 815 Asbury Dr., Mandeville, LA 70471 985-624-5080 www.zoomtechautomotive.com Bus CHArters Gaten's Adventures unlimited "For All Your Traveling Needs" 465 Morris Road Hammond, LA 985-345-7629 · 877-855-8572 www.gatenbuscharters.com CertiFied puBLiC ACCount Larry Holmes Bourgeois Bennett 111 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, La 70005 504-831-4949 larryh@bb-cpa.com • www.bb-cpa.com CHristiAn Bookstores Celebration Church Bookstore & Gifts 2001 Airline Dr., Metairie, LA 70001 Sunday 8-1, Wednesday 11-8, Saturday 5-8 504-831-9673 Faith Christian Bookstore 1337 Gause Blvd., Slidell, Louisiana 70458 985-641-7776
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Gospel Book store 91Westbank Expy Ste 410 Gretna, LA 504-362-7770 Books, Bibles, Music, Gifts... Open: Monday - Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm Credit CArd proCessinG MLS Direct Network Dan Arroyo 504-957-6956 866-850-8913 nhullen@aol.com www.mlsdirectnetwork.com deCorAtive ConCrete And FLoorinG miraCrete Concrete Coatings 985-206-9100 www.miracrete.com FinAnCiAL serviCes First Bank and trust 909 Poydras St., New Orleans, LA 70112 887-426-2498 www.FBTonline.com Furniture American Factory direct 68490 Hwy. 59 Mandeville, LA 70471 985-871-1120 www.afd-furniture.com HiGH sCHooLs International High School of New Orleans 727 Carondelet Street New Orleans, LA 70130 504-613-5702 enrollment@ihsnola.org • www.ihsnola.org
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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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Community Spotlight
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Come, Taste and See…..Natchez…. You will never get over it!
sell tours to homes, but more than that, we sell an experience. In 1932, the ladies of the local garden club opened their family homes to the public, initiating the first tour of its kind in America and ignit- Natchez has a birthday in 2016….300 years….the oldest settlement ing the spirit of historic preservation in our region. Then and now, all on the Mississippi River. Natchez Pilgrimage Tours is partnering with of our profits fund our preservation efforts. the Convention and Visitors Bureau, the National Park Service and the Natchez Festival of Music to provide special activities and tours Since 1932, the descendants of that first tour, members of the Natchez throughout the year. Look for upcoming events in celebration of Garden Club and the Pilgrimage Garden Club, have preserved over our 300th birthday that will be posted on the NPT website and at 30 antebellum mansions, all of which are on the National Register of visitnatchez.org. Historic Places and 12 of which are National Historic Landmarks. Go to www.natchezpilgrimage.com to view all of the beautiful antebelNatchez Pilgrimage Tours, an arm of these clubs, is the oldest full lum homes on tour for our Spring Pilgrimage, March 5- April 5, 2016. service receptive tour operator in Natchez. We assist individuals as If you are looking for a great worship experience, you can tour and well as large and small groups in planning a Natchez visit, including attend one of our many historic churches. From the Tiffany stained house tours, interactive historical presentations, bed-and-breakfast glass windows at Trinity Episcopal, to St. Mary Basilica’s glorious inlodging, hotels, meals, tour guides, evening entertainment, concerts, terior, you will be amazed that Natchez has these incredible places of worship. Attend “Southern Road to Freedom,” a stirring tribute to festivals, and more. the African-American experience by the Holy Family Choir, or learn Whether you are looking for a leisurely tour through downtown via about the history of Natchez at a performance of the Historic Natchez carriage ride, or an adventure with your family walking down trails Tableaux, an 83 year-old-tradition with over 300 local participants. along the Mississippi River, or in discovering the land that the Natchez Indians called home, we are able to help you plan your vacation. Bring Natchez Pilgrimage Tours is conveniently located at the Natchez your family or group to Natchez to dine in one of our many beautiful Visitors Center at 640 South Canal Street. We pride ourselves in helpantebellum homes, or see a play, enjoy a concert or learn about our ing you make your visit here one of your greatest experiences. rich history that has boasted a blending of cultures for centuries. We
NATCHEZ PILGRIMAGE TOURS Opening the doors for over 30 years to an insiders view of History and Hospitality “Natchez Style”. Your one stop for individual travelers and group tours. • Historic House Tours and Curator Tours • Natchez style Brunches, Lunches, Teas & Dinners in Historic Houses • Musical Events in Historic Properties & Houses • Cooking Classes & Mixology Classes • Wine and Candlelight Tours • Distillery Tours • Carriage Tours • Outdoor Adventure Tours • Charter Bus and Trolleys
Complete packages for Spring & Fall Pilgrimages w w w.natchezpilgrimage.com | I.800.647.6742 This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. -Psalm 118:24
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